The Influence of Economists in Political Campaigns

This chapter discusses the influence of economists and economic language on political campaigns. It contrasts the economic language used by Clinton, which came from non-economists, with JFK's economic language that was learned directly from Keynesian economists. The chapter explores how the influence of economists became more limited and specialized over time, particularly during the Clinton years. It also examines the relationship between economists and democratic networks, and how their differing views impacted policy making and strategic political demands.