SJSU Political Science Alumni Association

07/26/2026

What happens next in the Senate following Lindsey Graham’s death
Political science lecturer Donna Crane is interviewed. “Every state makes its own rules with regard to elections. So, in South Carolina, the way it works is there's a two-track process. First of all, the governor in South Carolina simply appoints someone, a seat warmer to complete the rest of Senator Graham's term. In the meantime, what has to happen is South Carolina Republicans have to choose another nominee because Lindsey Graham was in cycle. They have to choose another nominee who will be on the general election ballot in November, and that happens on an expedited timeline. So, starting on the 21st of this month. Basically, the doors are open in South Carolina. If you're a South Carolina Republican and you want to be the next Senator, you've got a week to file for that. and then there will be an election in August. If someone wins a clear majority in that primary election, then that's the person who goes on to the general ballot in November.”

06/25/2026

Jose Villareal ('96) is Supervising Program Administrator at the Santa Clara Valley Water District.

06/06/2026

Matt Bell ('90) is CEO of Pivotal, a nonprofit serving the needs of foster youth in Silicon Valley.

05/30/2026

Rebecca Elliot ('94)

04/21/2026

In the News with Professor Jackson, "It’s hard to overstate how important these debates are going to be."

“It’s hard to overstate how important these debates are going to be,” said Melinda Jackson, a political science professor at San Jose State University.

04/19/2026

04/13/2026

In the News: Karthika Sasikumar, political science professor." I think we will see an Iran that is militarily weaker. There's no doubting the fact that Iran's airforce, Iran's navy have been hit very hard by the United States. They're even less likely now to give up their potential to have a nuclear weapons program than they were before these hostilities began. Despite the two-week ceasefire, there are still many details to work out. And depending on what happens next, the region could be in for a period of increased uncertainty. It's been a delicate balancing act for the United States. Because the U.S. has tried to balance the need to keep its ally Israel safe with the need to keep the oil flowing, to keep the Gulf allies happy. But that balance may no longer be possible."

There are still many details to work out, despite the two-week ceasefire. However, the price of oil started to drop since the news was announced Tuesday.

04/03/2026

JOIN US IN CELEBRATING KENNETH PETER’S RETIREMENT

Dear Friends, Family, and Alumni,

The Department of Political Science at San José State University warmly invites you to join us in celebrating Professor Kenneth Peter’s retirement — honoring his decades of dedication, scholarship, mentorship, and leadership that have left a lasting mark on our department and community.

Date: Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Location: San José State University, Student Union Ballroom (2nd Floor)
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Parking: Available in the SJSU North Garage (map)

Enjoy an evening of refreshments, entertainment, and heartfelt tributes as we celebrate Professor Peter’s outstanding career and the many lives he’s touched.

03/29/2026

Fernando Torres-Gil ('70) will deliver the Spring 2026 Don Edwards Lecture and you are invited.

"The Politics of Aging: Entering the Brave New World of Intergenerational Tensions and Opportunities"

April 16, 7 p.m. Student Union Theater

03/23/2026

Edesa Bitbadal ('96) is Director of Public Affairs, West Region at Digital Realty.