This seminar studies political journalism and its impact on American politics. Each year we focus on a different aspect of the politics of the news media in modern America. In 2003, we will examine the relationship between the press and the presidency. We begin with the historical evolution of a presidency devoted to leadership of public opinion through the press. We also trace the evolution of the media from partisanship, to passive objectivity, to adversarialness, to scandal-mongering. The struggle between a more powerful press and a more manipulative presidency typifies our politics from Lyndon Johnson on to Bill Clinton and George W. Bush. Current news serves as a testing ground for the ideas advanced by scholars, journalists, and politicians. Prerequisites: junior standing and permission of instructor. Enrollment limited.