"When we talk about leadership, we often think that it's entirely under control of the individual," says Hans Hassell, Assistant Professor of Political Science at Cornell College. But in reality, "It's not necessarily Boehner's leadership style that's causing the problems, it's the political environment." Host Ben Kieffer talks with Hassell, David Andersen, Assistant Professor of Political Science at Iowa State University and Steffen Schmidt, University Professor of Political Science at Iowa State University. Recent stories about New Jersey Governor Chris Christie as well as revelations from former U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert Gates have raised questions about the issues and circumstances that influence political leadership. Hassell's recent research highlights how circumstances, like divided government, can impact public perceptions of leaders in Congress.
Katherine Perkins is IPR's Program Director for News and Talk