Best United States Local Government Books of 2025

The Courage to Be Free: Florida's Blueprint for America's Revival is a firsthand account from the Governor of Florida, Ron DeSantis, that reveals how he has accomplished so much for his state. Despite facing opposition from the political left and hostile media coverage, DeSantis has won battles and implemented policies that have led to a thriving economy, a successful education system, and a lower COVID mortality rate for seniors. The book is a winning blueprint for patriots across the country and a rallying cry for every American who wishes to preserve their liberties. This political leader biography book is a must-read for anyone interested in Florida's politics and Ron DeSantis's leadership style.

American Nations: A History of the Eleven Rival Regional Cultures of North America is an insightful book by Colin Woodard that explores the eleven distinct nations that shape North America. The author takes readers through a historical journey of the continent, revealing how the conflicts between the regions have shaped America's past and continue to shape its future. The book is particularly relevant in understanding the voting patterns in presidential elections. Woodard's work is well-researched, and the writing is engaging, making it an excellent read for anyone interested in American history and culture.

Discrimination and Disparities by Thomas Sowell examines the origins of economic disparities and challenges the idea that different economic outcomes can be explained by any one factor, be it discrimination, exploitation, or genetics. The book analyzes the human consequences of prevailing social visions of these disparities and the policies based on that vision. The author presents a well-researched and thought-provoking argument that is both accessible and relevant. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex issues surrounding economic disparities.

White Rage: The Unspoken Truth of Our Racial Divide is a powerful and thought-provoking book that reframes the conversation about race in America. Author Carol Anderson chronicles the history of white opposition to black progress in the United States, from the Civil War to the present day. Anderson argues that every time African Americans have made strides towards full participation in American democracy, white reaction has fueled a deliberate and relentless rollback of their gains. This book is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the roots of America's racial divide and the ongoing struggle for equality.

Understanding the Arizona Constitution by Toni McClory is a comprehensive guide to Arizona's government and its constitution. The book covers significant constitutional changes that have occurred since its first publication, including legislative term limits, the redistricting system, and the influence of special-interest money in the legislature. It also addresses hot-button social issues that have sparked controversy in the state. The book is written in plain language, making it accessible to any engaged citizen looking for information about online government resources, administrative rules, and voter rights. Overall, this book is a must-read for every Arizonan and belongs on every bookshelf.

What's Left Unsaid: My Life at the Center of Power, Politics & Crisis is a gripping memoir by Melissa DeRosa, who served as communications director, chief of staff, and secretary to Governor Andrew Cuomo in New York. DeRosa details her journey as a young woman in politics rising to the highest levels of government during one of the most consequential periods in our nation’s history. She gives readers an inside look into the inner workings of state and US government, including the #MeToo scandal that brought down a governor. The book is a powerful story of resilience in the face of adversity and a must-read for anyone interested in politics and government.

America, a Redemption Story by Tim Scott is a powerful memoir that tells the story of the American Dream and how it's still achievable. Scott believes that the best days of America are still ahead of us, and he shares his own personal experiences along with stories of other Americans who have overcome hardship and embodied the values that make our nation great. He calls on readers to embrace the ups and downs of life and strive for a more perfect union marked by optimism, hope, and strength. This book is a clear-eyed reckoning with our nation's failures and a testament to its accomplishments. Overall, it's an inspiring and thought-provoking read that highlights the importance of hope and unity in today's world.

The Return: Trump's Big 2024 Comeback by Dick Morris is a political analysis of what could be taking place in the near future. Morris reveals President Trump's strategy to win in 2024, laying out a road map for Trump to implement in his effort to take back the White House and the nation. The book outlines the strategy for victory on three fronts: making certain more legal, eligible votes are cast; stopping the theft of the election; and exposing the Democrats' radical agenda. Morris' book is a must-read for conservatives and MAGA supporters who want to see Trump return to the Oval Office and save America.

Not My First Rodeo: Lessons from the Heartland is a memoir by Kristi Noem, the current governor of South Dakota. In this book, she shares her life story of growing up on a ranch and how it taught her to be a leader. Noem's reflections are candid and offer honest glimpses into marriage, motherhood, and leadership in an unpredictable time. While the book does touch on politics, it is primarily a story of a life lived so far, with characters as richly textured as the Black Hills and reflections as gentle and powerful as America itself. Overall, it is an inspiring read that highlights the importance of hard work, faith, and helping others.

The Franklin Cover-up: Child Abuse, Satanism, and Murder in Nebraska is an eye-opening book by John DeCamp that exposes the dark secrets of the Franklin Community Federal Credit Union shutdown in 1988. The book uncovers the involvement of prominent figures in Nebraska politics and business, as well as the nation's capital, in a nationwide child abuse ring and ritual murder. DeCamp's use of never-before-seen documentation reveals the corruption of government institutions and the press, leading to a dangerous cover-up that lasted for years. Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the inner workings of power and corruption in America.