Review
"The book is both well researched and well written. The central topic is interesting and gets you to look at presidential involvement in criminal justice in a new light. It's a pretty easy read that provides interesting insights into bow the executive branch works. I also like the author's objectivity (neither "pro" Democrat or Republican) and his willingness to delve into 'touchy' subjects like racism." -- Tere Chipman, Fayetteville Technical Community College "Oliver lays out a very enlightening history of the federalization of crime policy. Although the Constitution seems to assign law and order concerns to the states, Oliver sketches well the growth and development o f crime as a presidential policy issue." -- David G. Williams, West Virginia University
From the Back Cover
Oliver argues that over time, especially in the latter half of the twentieth century, the American presidency has carved out a new role for the President of the United States, namely the chief executive of issues related to law and order. Presidents have assumed a larger role in criminal justice issues; the author explores the reasons why and demonstrates how presidents have become more involved. He then argues that this has had a profound impact upon public opinion of crime and, as a result, presidents have become a central influence in shaping public perception of crime in America.