The Accountability State

"A refined and informative look into the world of government IGs. Although Hilliard appropriately refrains from sweeping conclusions, this noteworthy book offers ample evidence that, at least sometimes, IGs are not just another layer of the ‘bureaucracy that they were designed to shrink’ but rather have grown into figures that help impose democratic accountability on a potentially unchecked administrative apparatus."—Political Science Quarterly

"Hilliard provides a close look at an important institution modern US government that continues to evolve."—Journal of Public Administration Research and Theory

“Hilliard brings the perspective and critical skills of a democratic theorist to the study of the IG, and in the process highlights both the problems and prospects of improving accountable governance. Each case provides insights on par with classics in the field that demonstrate how politically challenging the “watchdog”role can be, and yet she never loses sight of broader contemporary context (the “web of accountability”) within which these unique agents of accountability operate.”—Melvin J. Dubnick, professor of political science, University of New Hampshire

“The Accountability State is an excellent exploration of the evolution of and variation in Inspectors General in the federal government. It moves beyond mere case study to situate this important bureaucratic actor in both public administration and democratic theory. Relying on a wealth of public documents, elite interviews, and analysis of media coverage, Hilliard demonstrates the way in which the Inspector General reflects the long recognized tension between democracy and administration and the central role accountability mechanisms play in resolving that tension. It is a must read for those concerned about the democratic implications of the modern administrative state.”—Katy J. Harriger, professor of political science, Wake Forest University

“This timely book is essential reading for anyone who concerned about government accountability in this era of complex services. The federal inspectors general play an essential role in preventing fraud, waste, and abuse, but often face intense resistance from inside and outside government. Nadia Hilliard has written a comprehensive, long overdue book on the intersection between these key officers in the “accountability state” and the norms that guide democratic process. She has written the most important book on the inspectors general in at least two decades.”— Paul C. Light, Paulette Goddard Professor of Public Service, New York University