Letter from the Chair

Dear Friends,

The Grounds were abuzz this fall with the election of ’08. And setting a new precedent, the Provost suspended classes from 11:00-2:00 on January 20, 2009 so that all could witness the inauguration of President Barack Obama.

What now?

The new administration has some enormous challenges and possible opportunities ahead. In this issue folks from Politics discuss three big ones: the economic crisis, the Supreme Court, and understanding a rebellious Russia.

The Obama team’s first priority is to deal with the meltdown of the U.S. and global economy. Fierce debates rage over what should be done and indeed what actually has happened. Fortunately Professor Herman Schwartz is just finishing a book that sheds much light on these questions and here he gives us a preview of his compelling argument and its implications for U.S. power.

Few things taunt the dreams of Presidents more than the opportunity to shape the Supreme Court. Veteran court watcher and emeritus professor Henry Abraham graciously returns to our electronic lectern to answer two key questions: Will there be an opening on the court? Who will get the invite if there is? Don’t miss his answers below.

There is of course another way to understand the Supreme Court and that is by working on it. Outside of the justices those who see the court from the inside are rising legal stars who manage to receive a prestigious clerkship. In this issue read the story of such a star—Steven Shepard (Government and Foreign Affairs ’01). Inspired by Professor David O’Brien, Shepard went on Yale Law School and ended up working for Justice Kennedy.

No doubt one of the biggest challenges—and perhaps an opportunity—for the new administration involves a Russia that seems ready to rumble. In this issue Professor Allen Lynch sheds light on Russia’s motives in its conflict with Georgia—and Politics Lecturer Yuri Urbanovich (raised in Georgia) weighs in as well.

Finally, although the very nature of politics makes prediction a risky business, it is worthwhile noting that the Department’s best known pundit ran the table in Election ’08. Read how Larry Sabato not only talked the talk, but walked the walk with the help of his Crystal Ball.

I am delighted to announce that family, friends, and admirers of Professor Adam Watson are creating an award in his memory in the University’s Department of Politics. Watson was a distinguished diplomat, scholar, and then professor at U.Va. The J.H. Adam Watson Award will fund an outstanding graduate student or junior faculty member to pursue innovative thought in the study of international politics. Donations are very welcome at http://www.campaign.virginia.edu/supportwatsonfund.

We hope you are faring well in this time of challenges and perhaps opportunity. Either way, stop by and say hello when you are near the Department—and please send us your news at so we can share it in these pages.

Best regards,
Jeff Legro