Citizen Lobbyists: Local Efforts to Influence Public Policy

Focusing on citizen engagement, the book examines how ordinary Americans influence local government and public policy, challenging the notion of widespread apathy. Through a detailed case study of Santa Ana, California, and interviews with over fifty residents, it reveals that these individuals act as lobbyists, identifying personally significant issues to advocate for. The research highlights the critical role of public meetings and social networks in their efforts to impact local policy, bridging theory with practical insights into civic participation.