Electoral and Party Influence on Presidential Messages, 1789-1897

Abstract

This article probes the history of various types of presidential messages from the outset of the U.S. Constitution in 1789 until 1897. Using statistical procedures, it assesses influences on these messages. The study finds that both electoral and party influences have an impact on the type and frequency of messages sent by American presidents, albeit in an uneven manner. The author tallies types of messages over time, providing a valuable tool for further research in the area.