Does the Media Still Set the Agenda in Politics in the 21st Century?

John Edwards and The Prosecutors — John Edwards' scandal lost him a wife, a career in politics, and the respect of the American People. Now after his fall from grace as the champion of the downtrodden to secret philanderer, federal prosecutors have charged him with violating campaign finance laws - using campaign funds as hush money for his mistress. Dr. Michael Riccards examines the question of whether this behavior was a clear violation of the law, or prosecutorial misconduct. Read

School Funding Battle Looms in the Legislature — Last week the New Jersey Supreme Court ruled that funding cuts the Christie administration had made to school districts in poorer communities were unconstitutional. Dr. Salvatore Pizzuro, Ed.D examines the questions the conflict this could cause within the legislature. Read

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The Hall Institute is a non-partisan, not-for-profit foundation established to explore social, economic, educational and cultural issues. Our goal is to foster constructive debate and discussion and build a stronger, better New Jersey.

Since our inception in 2005, the Hall Institute has been at the forefront of public policy in our state. We conduct research and present public forums on timely topical issues, such as public pensions, health care reform and higher education funding. The institute has had a strong presence in New Jersey's last three statewide elections by sponsoring online virtual debates that provide citizens with substantive information on where the candidates stand on the major issues confronting our state.

The Hall Institute website features more than 400 papers and provides a platform for individuals and organizations to express opinions and offer ideas and suggestions.

We also produce our own public affairs television program and use podcasts, blogs and social networking to share our work and seek feedback. In addition to our other activities, the institute has published two books -- The State of the Garden State and Reaction and Reform in New Jersey. Both are compilations of the major papers posted on our website. A third volume, Creating A Common Future: New Jersey and Public Policy, was published online.

Located in Trenton at 224 West State Street, the institute was established by George E. Hall, a successful business executive and a leading philanthropist who lives in Middletown, N.J.