The Transfer of Power Between Presidential Administrations (Trouble with the Transition)

The Transfer of Power Between Presidential Administrations examines the problems that can occur when a new president enters office, with a focus on historical case studies.

The transition between presidents—especially when changing parties—is a wildcard in U.S. foreign policy that often confuses or concerns nations engaged with the United States. Though there are systems in place to ensure information gets passed from one administration to another, ideas and their execution can change dramatically when a new president takes office. Using case studies of six different incoming administrations during the Cold War and 21st century, this book will explore how the successes and failures in presidential transitions have had long-term effects on U.S. foreign policy, grand strategy, and international position. Looking at transitions involving multiple presidents, this book offers a fresh perspective on how foreign policy is formulated and carried out.

The book ends with an analysis of 21st-century transitions, making this work timely and important. This book will be of interest to students of modern American history, American politics and the modern presidency, and international relations.