Institute for Democratic Empowerment and Pluralism

Department of Political Science

Expert Analysis

As one of two states this year with a gubernatorial election, Virginia is at the forefront of the national political conversation. (Getty Images)

VCU experts available to discuss Virginia election topics

Oct. 1, 2025

Political science educators Alex Keena and Jatia Wrighten can offer analysis and perspective on voting, voter turnout, campaign finance and more.

A VCU researcher’s new study evaluates how different types of state legislatures can impact the effectiveness of women lawmakers. (Getty Images)

Are women better lawmakers than men? A nuanced yes, VCU researcher finds

Aug. 22, 2025

However, women serving on less professional state legislatures struggle to overcome lower-ranked committee assignments and entrenched sexism.

Merilyn Arikkat, who will graduate in May, is co-executive director of VCU Votes, a student-led, nonpartisan initiative. (Contributed photo)

Class of 2025: VCU Votes co-leader Merilyn Arikkat drives civic engagement among fellow students

April 28, 2025

The biology major and aspiring doctor is among national honorees for championing democracy.

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In race and gender, Kamala Harris charts a historic and challenging course, VCU professor says

Oct. 16, 2024

Jatia Wrighten, who researches Black women in politics, shares insight into the presidential nominee’s unique political landscape.

an image of the US capitol

How will the 2024 election impact the federal bureaucracy?

Oct. 10, 2024

Professor John Aughenbaugh and librarian Nia Rogers discuss the impact of the election on the federal bureaucracy

An image of the Ukrainian president with his hand over his heart standing in formation with soldiers

How the 2024 election will affect the war in Ukraine

Oct. 7, 2024

The outcome of next month’s U.S. presidential election will be pivotal in shaping not only the course of the war in Ukraine, but the future of democracy around the globe.

VCU students have been active with voter outreach efforts. (Contributed photo)

With a growing footprint, VCU Votes makes the case for student civic engagement

Oct. 7, 2024

This week’s National Voter Education Week features several on-campus events designed to increase awareness among student voters.

Vice presidential candidates typically have little impact on the outcome of elections, according to two VCU professors. (Getty Images)

For vice presidential nominees and their debates, interest will likely exceed impact

Sept. 30, 2024

VCU political analysts Amanda Wintersieck and John Aughenbaugh offer insight into what history tells us about presidential running mates.

Elections can be particularly anxiety-inducing for young people, according to a VCU expert. (Getty Images)

Got election anxiety? Here’s what to know about the causes – and how to cope

Sept. 23, 2024

VCU psychology professor Michael Southam-Gerow shares insight about change and managing emotions.

Students, faculty and staff at VCU are leading an array of efforts to help get people to the polls this year. (Getty Images)

This week’s National Voter Registration Day is a rallying point for student engagement

Sept. 17, 2024

VCU promotes student voting in a number of ways, and political science professor Amanda Wintersieck offers insight into how young voters are – and aren’t – engaging in the electoral landscape.