Explore the inner workings of the American political system just before the 2012 election starts heating up in the Fall. This course is an appropriate first step on the path toward earning a Major or Minor in Political Science and, for students pursuing degrees at the University of Kentucky, also fulfills the U.S. citizenship requirement of UKCore. Taking it in Summer 2012 will give students the background (and at UK a specific prerequisite) needed to enroll in Fall courses that tap into the election-year excitement, such as those on campaigns & elections, on political parties, or on the presidency. Bulletin description: "A survey of national government and the political process in the United States, with emphasis on the Constitution, the President, Congress, and the judicial system."