David L. Leal

David L. Leal is a Professor of Government at the University of Texas at Austin and a Senior Fellow (adjunct) at the Hoover Institution. His research focuses on Latino politics, immigration policy, and the political implications of demographic change in the United States. He teaches courses on Latino politics, immigration policy, politics and religion, and the U.S. Congress.

Leal has authored one book, edited eight volumes, and published over fifty peer-reviewed articles. His accolades include the

• American Political Science Association Congressional Fellowship
• Fulbright Distinguished Lecturer in Japan
• Associate Membership at Nuffield College, Oxford University
• Service on the American Political Science Association Council (2019-2022)

His research teams include affiliations with the

• Center for Revitalizing American Institutions
• School of Civic Leadership (inaugural faculty affiliate)
• Civitas Institute at UT-Austin

Leal’s recent publications (2024-2025) analyze Latino voting behavior, UK political dynamics, and demographic determinism. He argues that Latino voters increasingly reflect mainstream political trends rather than forming a monolithic bloc, challenging the "demography as destiny" narrative.

He serves on editorial boards for

• Social Science Quarterly
• Education Next
• Nations & Nationalism
• Journal of School Choice