Machine Politics

Poli 213; Fall 2006

Overview

• Formal Structure of the Machine

• Rise of the Machines

• Demise of the Machines

Formal Structure

Formal Structure

Neighborhood level (400-500 people)

Formal Structure

Precinct Captains

Responsibilities: Insure vote for boss leaders

Get the “right” slate of delegates elected

Formal Structure

Precinct Captains

Resources: Connections to higher ups allow for:

•jobs

•help with city government

•“material” benefits (food, beer)

Formal Structure

Precinct Captains

Alderman Alderman Alderman

Formal Structure

Precinct Captains

Alderman Alderman Alderman

City divided into different “wards” with each ward electing representative (i.e., “Alderman” or “Councilman,” or “ward boss”)

Formal Structure

Precinct Captains

Alderman Alderman Alderman

Responsibilities:

•maintain connections between government and business community (both licit and illicit)

•represent/connect neighborhood to government

Formal Structure

Precinct Captains

Alderman Alderman Alderman

Mayor or Party Boss

Formal Structure

• Responsibilities of Machine Boss/Mayor– Coordinate coalition of ward bosses and

precincts captains to maintain power/control of city government

– Link the precinct/ward to other political players (i.e., state and national officials, business leaders [legal and illegal]

Boss

Ward Bosses

Precinct Captains

Voters

Other Governments

Illicit

Businesses

Industry &Commerce