Release date: Sept. 29, 2005

Emory Experts Comment on DeLay, Challenges Facing GOP

Tom DeLay

Elaine Justice: 404-727-0643, elaine.justice@emory.edu
Beverly Clark: 404-712-8780, beverly.clark@emory.edu

Emory University experts are available to comment on the indictment of Congressional Majority Leader Tom DeLay and the ethical issues it raises about government in general, as well as how the many challenges faced by the Republican Party in recent months could impact the 2006 midterm elections.

Emory political scientist Alan Abramowitz, an expert on national politics, says the recent woes of the Republican party provide an opening for Democrats to gain momentum. Historically when the partisan tide begins a shift in one direction, the party with the advantage is able to attract stringer candidates and raise more money, and thus increase the effect of a partisan shift, Abramowitz explains. "The tremendous challenges Republicans have had in recent weeks could set the stage for a big swing in Congress, but that will depend on Democrats getting strong candidates to run," he says. Reach Abramowitz at 404-727-0108 or alan.abramowitz@emory.edu.

Emory political scientist Merle Black, says the recent problems faced by the GOP will have little influence in the South, which should remain solidly Republican in next year's midterm elections. "The indictment of DeLay is certainly a setback for Republicans and puts them on the defensive, but you'll see most of the party stick with him, although Republicans in contested districts will seek to distance themselves," he says. Black is a nationally renowned authority on politics in the South, particularly the rise of the Republican Party. Reach Black at 404-727-6570 or merle.black@emory.edu.

Edward Queen, director of ethics and servant leadership at Emory Center for Ethics, says that the indictment of DeLay raises serious ethical issues about government in general: "What effect does this have on people's perceptions of the legitimacy of government and the ways policies are made and implemented? Does it increase the level of cynicism and distrust of government that may be very debilitating?" In many ways, Queen says, politics is more honest today than in previous eras of American history. But today's politicians face much more complex legal and ethical issues, he says, and the expectations of political leaders are higher. 404-727-1240 (w), 404-519-9242 (cell), or edward.queen@emory.edu.

Emory University is known for its demanding academics, outstanding undergraduate college of arts and sciences, highly ranked professional schools and state-of-the-art research facilities. For nearly two decades Emory has been named one of the country's top 25 national universities by U.S. News & World Report. In addition to its nine schools, the university encompasses The Carter Center, Yerkes National Primate Research Center and Emory Healthcare, the state's largest and most comprehensive health care system.

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