Presidential Appointments and Personnel

Posted: 12 May 2011

See all articles by David E. Lewis

David E. Lewis

Vanderbilt University - Department of Political Science; Vanderbilt University - Law School

Date Written: June 2011

Abstract

This article reviews some recent advances in research on presidential appointments and personnel. I focus specifically on research analyzing changes in the institutional environment of presidential personnel, how presidents make decisions about whom to appoint, and the effects of presidential appointees on outputs. I explore what we know about how presidents have worked to change institutions surrounding presidential personnel by increasing the number of appointees and augmenting White House personnel operations. I examine how presidents decide what factors to value when choosing personnel. When do presidents value loyalty, competence, campaign support, or other characteristics of potential appointees? Finally, I examine the effects of appointees on outputs. What influence do appointees have over outputs and why do some have more influence than others? I describe the general trajectory of research in each area as well as some emerging issues confronting scholars in these areas.

Suggested Citation

Lewis, David E., Presidential Appointments and Personnel (June 2011). Annual Review of Political Science, Vol. 14, pp. 47-66, 2011, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1839111 or http://dx.doi.org/10.1146/annurev-polisci-042009-121225

David E. Lewis (Contact Author)

Vanderbilt University - Department of Political Science ( email )

VU Station B #351817
Nashville, TN 37235-1817
United States
615-322-6222 (Phone)

Vanderbilt University - Law School

131 21st Avenue South
Nashville, TN 37203-1181
United States

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