Assessing the President and the State of the Union

President Barack Obama makes his first State of the Union address on Wednesday evening, and aides say he will accept responsibility — though not necessarily blame — for a lack of swift results from the changes he promised a year ago as he now attempts to reset his agenda.

SMU political experts can provide insightful commentary on the speech, the political fallout from the unemployment rate, the health care debate and the ongoing struggle between Democrats and Republicans in Congress.
For interviews, contact SMU News & Communications by e-mail or at 214-768-7650.

Cal Jillson

Rita Kirk

Dennis Simon

Matthew Wilson

Cal Jillson
One of the nation’s foremost political experts, Jillson regularly provides journalists thoughtful insight on U.S. and Texas politics. A professor of political science, he is also the author of The American Dream, and a member of the Council of Foreign Relations.

Rita Kirk
With changes in political communication such as YouTube and other Internet trends, Kirk’s knowledge of the evolving communication landscape has made her a valuable source. She has the ability to adapt to story topics and specializes in political and persuasive campaigns.

Dennis Simon
A leading expert on politics and women, Simon is co-author of Breaking the Political Glass Ceiling: Women & Congressional Elections. A political science professor, Simon specializes in public opinion, elections and political polls.

Matthew Wilson
With a diverse knowledge of U.S. and Texas politics, Wilson specializes in religion and politics and can also speak to public opinion, elections and political psychology. His forthcoming book is The Blame Game: Political Sophistication and the Politics of Attribution.

# # #