Maxwell School News and Commentary

"It’s time to think beyond left, right and center," writes James-Christian Blockwood, adjunct professor in Maxwell's Washington programs. "Time to move beyond traditional political ideology that creates an identity trap dividing us instead of unifying us and encouraging compromise.

Vice Adm. Robert Murrett (Ret.), professor of practice of public administration and international affairs, says the war has entered a new phase and predicts an “operational tactical reset” but no major battlefield movements. “I don’t expect to see any dramatic shifts in the activity by the Ukrainian army,” he says, “but the leadership remains strong. I think we’ll see evidence of that very clearly in the months ahead.” 

“If I were a Democratic consultant or strategist, I would be taking a huge grain of salt before I base my playbook on this election,” says Grant Reeher, professor of political science and director of the Campbell Public Affairs Institute.

"He emphasizes, 'This is not your war. It is so far from you. You have other matters besides Ukraine,'" says Tetiana Hranchak, visiting assistant teaching professor. "Putin really wants to persuade the West to end the war sooner, which may indirectly indicate that his resources are running out."

"He [Putin] could get drunk on his success, conclude that the West is just a paper tiger and decide to push further to see what happens," says Brian Taylor, professor of political science and director of the Moynihan Institute of Global Affairs.

"We need to be intentional in forging new pathways by which BIPOC students can find physical geography and achieve their desired level of education, because regardless of career end points, diversification depends on drawing in more students from marginalized groups," writes Professor Emeritus of Geography and the Environment Jacob Bendix and his co-authors.

“Good news. Good news. Good news,” says Scott Landes, associate professor of sociology and O'Hanley Faculty Scholar. “They got the message that we need to engage.”

"It's hurt the general population's views of him, but it's fueled and strengthened his base, and even driven some Republicans on the fence to 'stay loyal' to the cause," says Grant Reeher, professor of political science. "Trump has been trying to wear these legal troubles as a badge of honor for his victimization, and of his commitment to his supporters."

 “​​Difficult choices will be required in the days and weeks ahead as military operations continue a policy of strong deterrence without seeking widespread escalation that could harm our interests and those of our allies,” says Vice Adm. Robert Murrett (Ret.), professor of practice of public administration and international affairs.

"First and foremost, housing costs. What will it do to my household wealth if I buy a house outright in that area (including selling my own house)?," says Professor Emeritus of Economics Donald Dutkowsky about factors retirees should consider when choosing a state for retirement.