Michael S. Rocca

Michael S. Rocca is an Associate Professor in the Department of Political Science at the University of New Mexico (UNM) and Director of UNM’s Master of Public Policy Program. His research focuses on American national institutions, particularly the U.S. Congress, with emphasis on position-taking, campaign finance, and minority representation. His work has been published in leading journals such as The Journal of Politics, Political Research Quarterly, and The Forum.

Professor Rocca’s research spans three interconnected agendas: (1) campaign spending in U.S. elections, (2) congressional position-taking (e.g., roll call voting, speeches), and (3) minority representation in Congress. His recent studies include analyses of Super PAC spending post-Citizens United and Latino representation in the U.S. House. He has also contributed to policy reports on legislative professionalization in New Mexico.

Scientific Awards:

• College of Arts and Sciences Teaching Excellence Award (2010, 2023)
• UNM Digital Literacy Innovation Award (2021)
• Best Paper Award, Political Research Quarterly (2011)

Professor Rocca serves as the coordinator of the Political Science Internship Program and has held leadership roles in the UNM Athletic Council and Honors Program. His grants include a 2022 UNM Faculty Allocation Grant to study corporate social responsibility’s political dimensions.