As a scholar and teacher, I seek to promote understanding of the political causes and consequences of inequality and marginalization. My research explores how economic, social, and political inequalities shape democratic processes and institutions across the Americas. Although elections are common throughout the hemisphere, the region’s political systems often fall far short of promoting political and social inclusion. My scholarship analyzes how limited political representation and persistent economic and social inequality distort political institutions and processes in formally democratic regimes. I am particularly interested in understanding how the failings of democracy impede ordinary citizens’ efforts to obtain a voice in politics and improve their well-being.

In my work, I have shown how the failure of political parties to provide representation undermines public support for egalitarian policies, weakens partisan ties, and threatens the maintenance of party systems and democracy. I have further demonstrated how inequalities that continue to marginalize historically excluded groups, like women, Indigenous, and Afro-descendant people, reduces trust in the state, weakens democratic values, and jeopardizes democratic processes.

As a teacher, I aim to bring students into the work of understanding the practice of politics. I see teaching as an inherently dynamic process in which I challenge students to think analytically and ask questions about power, and they challenge me to do the same. I love the vibrant ideas that emerge as students grapple with these questions. I am also invested in developing and leading mentoring initiatives for faculty and early career researchers in the university and the discipline. I approach my teaching and mentoring through strategies that aim to create space for careful thinking, independent growth, and discovery.

I am a proud Pennsylvanian, and since my time as a Visiting Scholar at the Russell Sage Foundation, I’m also a wistful former New Yorker. I am a life-long Tar Heel, having earned my MA and PhD at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. I am mom to a wise elven princess and fond of time spent exploring.

I tweet at @prof_jmorgan.