Anatomy of a Purple State

Christopher A. Cooper is the Madison Distinguished Professor of Political Science and Public Affairs and director of the Haire Institute for Public Policy at Western Carolina University. In addition to two books, he has written for numerous publications, including The Assembly, the Washington Post, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the Charlotte Observer, and the News and Observer.

"[Cooper's] book achieves the promise of its title; it is a brisk read, yet a well-researched rundown of how North Carolina found its way into its purple status . . . . Along the way, Cooper introduces us to some true characters and shenanigans from the Old North State's political history, as he details three trends roiling the state's politics today -- nationalization, competition and polarization."--The Fayetteville Observer "Analysis of the curious politics of North Carolina, a definitively purple state . . . . A useful handbook for students of political trends throughout the U.S. in a turbulent election year."--Kirkus Reviews "Based on years of conversations, research, writing and reflection, as well as Cooper's passion for helping more people understand NC politics and the role they can play in shaping it."--NC Local News Workshop "Chris Cooper rarely struggles to answer an interview question. From the state's first constitution to last week's voter registration numbers, North Carolina's resident political pundit is always prepared to discuss anything. But he felt like his answers to one question--what book would he recommend for a rundown on North Carolina politics?--were a bit outdated. So he wrote that book."--INDY Week "Read Anatomy of a Purple State and you will know more about North Carolina politics than your neighbors."--D.G. Martin, Chapelboro