Cornell Clayton

Cornell Clayton is the C.O. Johnson Distinguished Professor of Political Science and Director of the Thomas S. Foley Institute for Public Policy and Public Service at Washington State University. He specializes in constitutional law, judicial politics, and democratic institutions. Clayton holds advanced degrees from Oxford University (Ph.D. and M.A.) and the University of Utah (B.A.).

His research focuses on judicial decision-making, political polarization, and Washington state governance. Notable works include studies on the Roberts Court, voting rights, and presidential subpoenas. Clayton has received prestigious awards like the Fulbright Fellowship and Truman Scholarship, and his work has been featured in major media outlets.

Clayton’s academic leadership includes editing Political Research Quarterly and chairing the American Political Science Association’s Law and Courts Section. He has held visiting positions globally and remains active in public policy discourse.