Grassroots for Hire

'Using a mix of sociological and political science literature and sophisticated methodology, Walker provides numerous cases studies and empirical evidence that many seemingly citizen-initiated campaigns are really orchestrated by funding from corporations and interest groups seeking to benefit … The examples and data are current and help 'pull back the curtain' to expose a political marketplace in which many ideas and measurements of support receive significant subsidies. The next time an advocate says 'the people have spoken', some skepticism should emerge … Summing up: recommended.'Endorsements - A New History S. E. Frantzich, Choice

'Walker's focus on a specific set of actors playing a specific role in the political process enables him to make meaningful policy assessments and recommendations. His advice on how to strengthen and enforce existing laws, especially those related to financial disclosure are both insightful and practical, not to mention possible if citizens can press their legislators to adopt them. In this way, his book deploys solid empirical social science in a way that contributes constructively to political discourse. In an age of big money campaigns and facile political cynicism, Walker's book offers a refreshing reminder that citizens still have an important role to play.' Mobilization

'This book offers an important theoretical contribution to social movement theory and political sociology more generally.' Brayden G. King, Social Forces

'Walker's book is a must-read for anyone interested in changing patterns of collective action in the twenty-first century.' Interest Groups and Advocacy