Andrew J. Taylor is professor of political science in the School of Public and International Affairs at NC State University. He received his Ph.D. from the University of Connecticut and teaches courses in American politics. He is a recipient of Dirksen Congressional Center research awards and provides political commentary for a number of local media outlets. In 1999-2000 he was the American Political Science Association's Steiger Congressional Fellow. Dr. Taylor has published in many journals including the American Journal of Political Science, Journal of Politics, Legislative Studies Quarterly, Political Research Quarterly, and American Politics Research and is the author of the books, Elephant's Edge: The Republicans as a Ruling Party and The Floor in Congressional Life.