Before there was an American union, there were the American states. Despite this development, the state political systems differ in many significant ways. In this exercise, students will get a chance to explore the politics in various states in the U.S., and compare their dynamics. Political conflict is rough and tumble, political power is closely guarded, and public policy is often narrowly applied. The politics of a traditionalistic state is likely to be dominated by a small number of prominent leaders, many of whom have gained power through family ties.
States differ markedly in the degree of freedom they grant their local units.
One opportunity afforded voters in all states, except Delaware, not afforded by the federal government, is that of voting directly on issues of policy. Initiatives are placed on ballots through petition efforts, referendums , are questions legislatures put before voters. These initiatives and referendums may also appear at various municipal levels depending on local rules. States and localities also vary in frequency and influence of ballot proposals. State Political Structures State constitutions determine political structures and the fundamental relationships between state government and municipalities.