The Politics of Urban Policy

Abstract

American cities face formidable difficulties. Most urban governments lack the fiscal and economic resources with which effectively to address the unemployment, welfare, health, narcotic, infrastructural, educational, and public transportation problems they confront. Cities are home to a disproportionate number of America’s most disadvantaged citizens, those least well prepared for labor market participation. The resolution of these problems requires a significant federal role. However, despite the election of a Democratic president, it is improbable, for political and fiscal reasons explained below, that a major federal program directed to cities’ needs will be formulated and implemented.