The 2008 presidential nominations were unprecedented in many ways. Marking another step in the democratization of the selection process and a surprising loss of control by party elites, the contests in both parties were unusually competitive and the outcomes belied the predictions of experts. This book offers a fresh look at the role of parties, the constraints of campaign finance, the status of front-runners, and the significance of rules, race, and gender in the post-reform era. In this volume, leading scholars assess the state of the process with original research about money, scheduling, superdelegates, and the role of race and gender in voting.

Original analyses show how changes in campaign finance and the scheduling of primaries and caucuses helped determined the outcomes in both parties. Race, once thought of as a handicap, proved an asset for the Obama campaign. 2008 marked another milestone in the democratization of the nominations process with expanded participation by rank and file voters in donating money, voting, and using the Internet. This timely book provides a glimpse into the future of party nominations and elections.

This outstanding volume reminds us that the presidential primary elections of 2008 were watershed events for those who study race, gender, campaign tactics, voter participation, campaign spending, or the institutions that influence election outcomes. The unexpected twists and turns of 2008 left many theories in tatters, and this volume maps out the research agenda as leading scholars of primary campaigns look to the future. -- Donald Green, Yale University
The American presidential nominating process has changed dramatically in the past four decades, but since 1972 no changes have been as dramatic as those in 2007 and 2008. Jack Citrin and David Karol have assembled an outstanding group of scholars to discuss these changes. This collection is essential for Americans interested in election campaigns, presidential politics, or political parties. The essays are timely, clear, and accessible. -- Paul R. Abramson, Michigan State University

Jack Citrin is the Heller Professor of Political Science and director of the Institute of Governmental Studies at the University of California at Berkeley.

David Karol is assistant professor of political science at the University of California at Berkeley.