American federalism is one of the most effective methods for sustaining American democracy.  This overlapping and complementary system of government allows for citizens at all levels to develop their own governance structures and provide services to constituencies.  However, there appears to be drawbacks to these systems as well as each State and Local government pursues its own government methodology with differing results.  Each of these systems has its strengths and weaknesses.

During this assignment, students will analyze and compare three state and local governments that are recognize for their distinctive features, which separate themselves from the norm.  Students will examine the following three case studies and comparatively analyze the strengths and weaknesses of each.  In addition, students must answer the following questions with respect to these case studies and follow this general outline. 

Case Study #1- Examination of Direct Democracy- Government of California (length two to three pages)

• What distinguishes the California government system from other state governments?
• Why is it different from other state governments?
• How does the California system of direct democracy affect the performance of the government in providing services?
• Does the legislature or governor have more power in California based on your analysis?
• How is the provision of funds to local and state efforts affected or optimized by direct democracy?
• What are the advantages of direct democracy for California citizens? What are the disadvantages?

Case Study #2- French governance influences on Louisiana State government (length two to three pages)

• What distinguishes the Louisiana government system from other state governments?
• Why is it different from other state governments?
• How does the Louisiana system of government affect the performance of the government in providing services?
• Does the legislature or governor have more power in Louisiana based on your analysis?
• How is the provision of funds to local and state efforts affected or optimized by Louisiana’s French based system?
• What are the advantages of direct democracy for Louisiana citizens? What are the disadvantages?

Case Study #3- New York City local government (length two to three pages)

• What distinguishes the New York City government system from other state governments and local governments?
• Why is it different from other state and local governments?
• How does the New York City system of government affect the performance of the government in providing services?
• What type of local government structure, structures does New York City utilize?
• How is the provision of funds to local sub-governments affected or optimized by the New York City governance system?
• What are the advantages of New York City’s government system for its citizens? What are the disadvantages for its citizens?

Compare and Contrast- (length two to three pages)

• Having analyzed three local and state government systems; what are the key factors in being a successful government?
• If you were designing a state or local government from scratch, what structure or systems would you ensure were present for successful performance?
• Comparing California State, Louisiana State, and New York City, which do you think is the most effective government?  Why do you think your choice is the most effective?

Writing the Final Paper

The Final Paper:

• Must be 10 to 12 double-spaced pages in length, and formatted according to APA style as outlined in the Ashford Writing Center.
• Must include a title page with the following:
  • Title of paper
  • Student’s name
  • Course name and number
  • Instructor’s name
  • Date submitted
• Must begin with an introductory paragraph that has a succinct thesis statement.
• Must address the topic of the paper with critical thought.
• Must end with a conclusion that reaffirms your thesis.
• Must use at least five scholarly resources, including a minimum of two from the Ashford University Library.
• Must document all sources in APA style, as outlined in the Ashford Writing Center.
• Must include a separate reference page, formatted according to APA style