Welcome

Welcome! I am an Associate Professor of Political Science at Colgate University and Co-Editor of International Studies Perspectives. My research investigates the impact of political elites on international security and foreign policy.  I have a special interest in how leaders use the tools of coercion to achieve their foreign policy goals, how leaders establish reputations, and how the backgrounds of leaders influence their policy preferences.  My book Reputation for Resolve: How Leaders Signal Determination in International Politics (Cornell University Press, Cornell Studies in Security Affairs 2020), which won the 2021 J. David Singer Book Award, examines how new leaders establish reputations for resolve through their statements and behavior. I am currently working on my second book, The Veteran Effect: How Military Experience Shapes Congressional Foreign and Defense Policy. My research is also published or forthcoming in International Studies Quarterly, Political Analysis, Security Studies, International Interactions, Political Research Quarterly, the Journal of Global Security Studies, Ethics & International Affairs, Global Studies Quarterly, and American Politics Research.

My policy relevant writings have appeared in Foreign Affairs, Foreign Policy, Just Security, The Washington Post's Monkey Cage, and The Ambassador's Brief. I am also a permanent contributor to Political Violence @ A Glance, where I engage in policy analysis of current events and international problems. My media appearances include CNN, the New York Times, The Economist, Good Morning America, The Hill, Roll Call, Military.com, Defense One, War on the Rocks' Warcast, Horns of a Dilemma Podcast, and the POTUS radio show.  

Email: dlupton [at] colgate [dot] edu.