This theoretical chapter develops the argument that the conditions of cities—large, densely populated, heterogeneous communities—generate distinctive governance demands supporting (1) market interventions and (2) group pluralism. Together, these positions constitute the two dimensions of progressive liberalism. Because of the nature of federalism, such policies are often best pursued at higher levels of government, which means that cities must present a united front in support of city-friendly politics. Such unity is far from assured on the national level, however, because of deep divisions between and within cities that undermine cohesive representation. Strategies for success are enhanced by local institutions of horizontal integration developed to address the governance demands of urbanicity, the effects of which are felt both locally and nationally in the development of cohesive city delegations and a unified urban political order capable of contending with other interests and geographical constituencies in national politics.
