New York University

POL-UA 300

This exam consists of 17 questions in various formats; including fill in the blank, true/false/explain, short answer, and short essay. The number of points each question is work is indicated throughout the exam. The entire exam is worth 88 points. You have 70 minutes (12:35 – 1:45) to complete the exam. Please allocate your time accordingly. You are to write all of your answers in a separate “blue book” that will be provided to you. Please return this exam with your blue book. Good luck! Short Essay (20 points) In June of 2014, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued draft regulations that set a national standard for carbon pollution. The goal of the plan is to cut carbon pollution from power plants by 30% from 2005 levels by 2030. The regulation is primarily aimed at reducing pollution from 600 coal-fired power plants, the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the United States. Overall, coal supplies about 40% of the nation’s electricity, but states like Kentucky, Ohio, and Missouri rely on coal for 80% to 90% of their power whereas states like California, New York, and New Jersey rely on coal for less than 20%. Below is a map (from the New York Times) depicting the share of electricity generated by coal in each state. 1. What is the logic of the E.P.A., a federal agency, issuing such a regulation? Use eight to ten sentences to discuss how the story illustrates relevant models of politics covered in class lectures and readings. Your response should clearly identify concepts and models of politics relevant to the story and explain how they apply to the story. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE