The Politics of Nonpartisanship: A Study of California City Elections delves into the intricate dynamics of nonpartisan elections in California’s cities, exploring their structure, influence, and effectiveness within the broader context of American political systems. Amid a rapidly urbanizing nation where municipal governance significantly shapes daily life, this book investigates how local elections function without the direct influence of national party labels. It examines the theory behind nonpartisan elections—a political philosophy aimed at fostering direct ties between voters and candidates, free from party intervention—and contrasts it with the realities of political competition in cities. By analyzing the roles of various groups, campaign strategies, and voter behavior, the book sheds light on how nonpartisan elections differ from, and at times resemble, partisan elections at state and national levels.

In addition to its detailed exploration of local election processes, the book evaluates nonpartisan elections against democratic ideals, such as inclusivity, competition, and accessibility to political power. It also highlights the interplay between local, state, and national politics, illustrating how the political process remains interconnected across different governmental levels, regardless of the ballot's nonpartisan nature. Through its case study of California cities, the book offers valuable insights into the broader implications of nonpartisan politics for urban governance and democratic practice in the United States.

This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press’s mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1960.