Structural realignments in American city politics - Less class, more race, and a new political culture

In the past, theorists have debated class versus race versus nonclass interpretations of city politics. This author suggests transcending the debate, concluding that some cities have race and class politics, and others do not. One can join this simple observation to more general theories by formulating propositions showing how structural characteristics generate or dampen racial cleavages and class politics. Anew political culture is emerging, which contrasts with class and race politics. The author's propositions explain how and where. The propositions are tested using data from the Fiscal Austerity and Urban Innovation Project for the United States and, occasionally, other countries.