Racial Politics: Does It Pay?
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| Title: | Racial Politics: Does It Pay? |
|---|---|
| Authors: | Bates, Timothy, Williams, Darrell L. |
| Source: | Social Science Quarterly (University of Texas Press). Sep93, Vol. 74 Issue 3, p507-522. 16p. 6 Charts. |
| Subjects: | African American mayors, Black business enterprises, Power (Social sciences), Public spending, Taxation |
| Geographic Terms: | United States |
| Abstract: | The article presents information on a study regarding the impact of the presence of black mayors on the size and scope of the black business community. Political power, it is argued, generates economic benefits. Evidence from case studies indicates that black mayors place a high priority on municipal contracting with minority-owned businesses. Mayors can benefit their constituents in ways other than creating demand for the output of minority-owned firms. The study focuses on this particular method because once budgeted, government expenditures offer mayors greater discretion compared to alternative methods. For example, tax rates and the benefit levels of social programs are usually determined by state and federal governments, and, where local government has control, changes usually require the approval of the city council. The authors conjecture that the discretion afforded mayors over local government procurement contracts provides them the greatest opportunity to reward constituents and that businesses owned by constituents are likely beneficiaries. |
| Database: | Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection |
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