From Complexity to Clarity

Research Article| October 01 2021 From Complexity to Clarity: A Network Approach to Better Understanding Issues on a Black-Interest Agenda Periloux C. Peay, Periloux C. Peay Georgia State University Search for other works by this author on: This Site PubMed Google Scholar John D. Rackey John D. Rackey University of Oklahoma Search for other works by this author on: This Site PubMed Google Scholar National Review of Black Politics (2021) 2 (3-4): 145–170. https://doi.org/10.1525/nrbp.2021.2.3-4.145 Views Icon Views Article contents Figures & tables Video Audio Supplementary Data Peer Review Share Icon Share Twitter LinkedIn Tools Icon Tools Get Permissions Cite Icon Cite Search Site Citation Periloux C. Peay, John D. Rackey; From Complexity to Clarity: A Network Approach to Better Understanding Issues on a Black-Interest Agenda. National Review of Black Politics 1 October 2021; 2 (3-4): 145–170. doi: https://doi.org/10.1525/nrbp.2021.2.3-4.145 Download citation file: Ris (Zotero) Reference Manager EasyBib Bookends Mendeley Papers EndNote RefWorks BibTex toolbar search Search Dropdown Menu toolbar search search input Search input auto suggest filter your search All ContentNational Review of Black Politics Search Daniel Gillion’s (2016) theory of discursive governance contends that “the path to ameliorating these [racial] inequalities begin[s] with politicians’ willingness to engage in a conversation” (14). Floor speeches play an essential role in allowing leadership to assess the mood of the rank-and-file, send signals to administrative agencies and the courts about legislative intent, and take positions and claim credit in service of their reelection goals (Fenno 1978; Mayhew 1974). Legislative speechmaking allows members to effectively communicate to other elites, particularly interest groups, that a member is credibly committed to the interests of that group (Ray 2018). Additionally, a legislator’s speechmaking behavior is tied to their representation (home) style (Hill and Hurley 2002, 219–20). It is clear that Black representatives see a great deal of value in their role in shaping the discourse surrounding issues that directly impact communities that share their identity. It... You do not currently have access to this content.