Thomas Hansford

Thomas Hansford is Vice Provost for Academic Personnel and a Professor at the University of California, Merced. His academic career focuses on American politics and judicial politics, including topics like interest group litigation, Supreme Court-congressional dynamics, and electoral processes.

• Education
  • Ph.D. in Political Science (2001), University of California, Davis
  • B.A. in Political Science (1993), Saint Mary's College of Maryland

His research explores the evolution of judicial institutions, precedent interpretation by the Supreme Court, and voter turnout mechanisms. Publications include The Politics of Precedent at the U.S. Supreme Court (Princeton University Press) and articles in top-tier journals such as American Political Science Review and Law & Society Review. He also investigates campaign strategies and electoral system interactions.