This volume contains a vibrant set of insightful essays which examine the array of challenges facing the Obama administration, and the president himself. Topics range from how best to manage a ruptured economy to controlling the budget, the green agenda, foreign policy and the recalibration of US relations with the UK, along with sections on presidential leadership, elections, healthcare and food poverty. The common theme throughout is the issue of governing in a fractured, fractious political environment, and the difficulties that accompany this. Contributing scholars are based at both US and UK academic institutions, and so a range of informed perspectives are offered throughout this engaging work. Packed with detail and yet highly accessible, this volume will appeal to those interested in American politics, history and the political process.