About Me

I am an Assistant Professor in the Department of Political Science at the United States Naval Academy (USNA), a position I have held since July 2021. I earned my Ph.D. and M.A. in Political Science from Vanderbilt University in 2021, where I also obtained a Certificate in College Teaching from the Center for Teaching. Prior to my graduate studies, I completed my undergraduate education at the University of Georgia (GO DAWGS!), earning dual B.A. degrees in Political Science and Philosophy. I am also a faculty affiliate for the Center for Effective Lawmaking (CEL) and a former graduate affiliate for the Center for the Study of Democratic Institutions (CSDI).

My research and teaching interests include American politics, political institutions, legislative politics, social class and economic inequality, bureaucracy, presidency, quantitative methods, causal inference, and formal models and empirical testing. My work has been published in the American Journal of Political Science.

My current research agenda focuses on the implications of economic inequality within the U.S. Congress, a topic that I explored extensively in my dissertation. By expanding existing datasets and conducting original data collection, I analyze wealth disparities among U.S. Representatives over 40 years, revealing significant and increasing inequalities over time. Contrary to popular belief, not all members of Congress hail from the highest economic strata. My findings suggest that while the wealthiest members are notably distinct from both their colleagues and constituents, those in the bottom quintile of wealth are more representative of the average American. These disparities have profound implications for electoral strategies, legislative activity, and overall representation, which I explore in depth in my ongoing book project titled Capitol Capital: The Consequences of Economic Inequality Within the U.S. Congress.

In addition to my research on economic inequality, I am involved in several other projects that examine the behavior of political elites within American institutions. These projects include studies on bureaucratic decision-making, presidential power and communication, and the influence of congressional committees on legislators’ career trajectories and legislative effectiveness. My work is driven by a passion for understanding how political institutions operate and how they can be improved to better serve the public.

At the USNA, I have the privilege of instructing future leaders of our country on topics including legislative processes, U.S. government and constitutional development, and the complexities of congressional dysfunction. My courses are designed not just to impart knowledge but to challenge students to think critically about the institutions that govern us and their role in making those institutions more effective.

Before my time at Vanderbilt, I gained valuable experience at the University of Georgia, where I was actively involved in various leadership roles, including serving as a resident assistant and as the Director of Public Affairs for the University Judiciary. I also had the pleasure of working at the Chick-fil-a Dwarf House in Duluth, GA, where I developed a strong work ethic and a commitment to service.

My dedication to service and mentorship has continued throughout my career. Before relocating to Annapolis, I was honored to mentor high school students through the TN Achieves program, where I served as a mentor and big brother. I firmly believe in the importance of paying forward the privileges and opportunities I have received, and I find deep personal and professional fulfillment in these efforts.

For more information about me or my work, please visit my C.V. If you would like to schedule a meeting, please visit the Contact page.