Political Science ETDs
Publication Date
Fall 11-15-2021
Abstract
ABSTRACT
A fundamental policy choice in economic development among local policy makers is the appropriate mix of “outside” strategies that use incentives to attract companies, and “inside” strategies that invest in smaller and local businesses. Using a mixed-methods research design, including national and state surveys along with qualitative analysis of interviews conducted with policy elites, I examine the role of ideology, elites, community, competition, social capital (trust and influence), and electoral politics in these policy decisions. I use new descriptive theoretical frameworks called “recruitment machines” and “Political Return on Investment (PROI)” to describe how and why local elected officials support outside strategies despite the negative reviews of the strategy’s efficacy. I find that while ideology, competition and elites often affect the policy process, community involvement can play a significant role. I provide policy recommendations to better involve community in economic development decisions and more responsibly oversee the use of incentives.
Degree Name
Political Science
Level of Degree
Doctoral
Department Name
Political Science
First Committee Member (Chair)
Dr. Gabe Sanchez
Second Committee Member
Dr. Tim Krebs
Third Committee Member
Dr. Jami Nelson Nuñez
Fourth Committee Member
Dr. Claudia Isaac
Document Type
Dissertation
Recommended Citation
Griego, Eric G. Montoya. "Recruitment Machines, Community Power and Political Return on Investment (PROI): Economic Development Policy in the Age of Amazon." (2021). https://digitalrepository.unm.edu/pols_etds/102
Included in
American Politics Commons, Economic Policy Commons, Growth and Development Commons, Other Political Science Commons, Policy Design, Analysis, and Evaluation Commons, Political Economy Commons, Public Administration Commons, Public Policy Commons, Urban Studies Commons, Urban Studies and Planning Commons
