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Wisconsin for Kennedy: The Primary That Launched a President and Changed the Course of History
The behind-the-scenes story of JFK’s 1960 Wisconsin primary campaign
When John F. Kennedy ran for president in 1960, he did something no candidate had done he leveraged the power of state primaries to win his party’s nomination. Kennedy’s first battleground state? Wisconsin—a state that would prove more arduous, more exhausting, and more crucial to winning the presidency than any other.
Wisconsin for Kennedy brings to life the stories behind JFK’s history-making 1960 Wisconsin primary campaign, and how Kennedy’s team managed to outmaneuver his politically seasoned opponent, Hubert Humphrey. From Jackie Kennedy commandeering a supermarket loudspeaker in Kenosha, to the Wisconsin forklift driver who planned President Kennedy’s final trip to Dallas, this captivating book places readers at the heart of the action.
Author B.J. Hollars chronicles JFK’s nail-biting Wisconsin win by drawing on rarely cited oral histories from the eclectic team of people who worked together to make it a cranberry farmer, a union leader, a mayor, an architect, and others. Wisconsin for Kennedy explores how Wisconsin helped propel JFK all the way to the White House in a riveting historical account that reads like a work of rollicking, page-turning fiction.
When John F. Kennedy ran for president in 1960, he did something no candidate had done he leveraged the power of state primaries to win his party’s nomination. Kennedy’s first battleground state? Wisconsin—a state that would prove more arduous, more exhausting, and more crucial to winning the presidency than any other.
Wisconsin for Kennedy brings to life the stories behind JFK’s history-making 1960 Wisconsin primary campaign, and how Kennedy’s team managed to outmaneuver his politically seasoned opponent, Hubert Humphrey. From Jackie Kennedy commandeering a supermarket loudspeaker in Kenosha, to the Wisconsin forklift driver who planned President Kennedy’s final trip to Dallas, this captivating book places readers at the heart of the action.
Author B.J. Hollars chronicles JFK’s nail-biting Wisconsin win by drawing on rarely cited oral histories from the eclectic team of people who worked together to make it a cranberry farmer, a union leader, a mayor, an architect, and others. Wisconsin for Kennedy explores how Wisconsin helped propel JFK all the way to the White House in a riveting historical account that reads like a work of rollicking, page-turning fiction.
256 pages, Paperback
Published March 12, 2024
3 people are currently reading
37 people want to read
About the author
B.J. Hollars
30 books72 followersB.J. Hollars is the author of several books, most recently Wisconsin for Kennedy: The Primary That Launched a President and Changed The Course of History, Year of Plenty: A Family's Season of Grief, Go West Young Man: A Father and Son Rediscover America on the Oregon Trail, Midwestern Strange: Hunting Monsters, Martians and the Weird in Flyover Country, The Road South: Personal Stories of the Freedom Riders, Flock Together: A Love Affair With Extinct Birds, From the Mouths of Dogs: What Our Pets Teach Us About Life, Death, and Being Human, as well as a collection of essays, This Is Only A Test. Additionally, he has also written Thirteen Loops: Race, Violence and the Last Lynching in America, Opening the Doors: The Desegregation of the University of Alabama and the Fight for Civil Rights in Tuscaloosa, Dispatches from the Drownings, and Sightings. He and his film partner, Steve Dayton, have also completed a documentary When Rubber Hit The Road,
Hollars is the recipient of the Truman Capote Prize for Literary Nonfiction, the Anne B. and James B. McMillan Prize, the Council of Wisconsin Writers' Blei-Derleth Award, the Society of Midland Authors Award, and received a 2022 silver medal from the Midwest Book Awards.
He is the founder and executive director of the Chippewa Valley Writers Guild and the Midwest Artist Academy, as well as a professor of English at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, and a columnist for The Leader-Telegram. He lives a simple existence with his family.
Hollars is the recipient of the Truman Capote Prize for Literary Nonfiction, the Anne B. and James B. McMillan Prize, the Council of Wisconsin Writers' Blei-Derleth Award, the Society of Midland Authors Award, and received a 2022 silver medal from the Midwest Book Awards.
He is the founder and executive director of the Chippewa Valley Writers Guild and the Midwest Artist Academy, as well as a professor of English at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, and a columnist for The Leader-Telegram. He lives a simple existence with his family.
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Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews
March 9, 2024
"Wisconsin For Kennedy: The Primary That Launched A President and Changed the Course of History” by B.J. Hollars recounts the groundbreaking 1960 Wisconsin primary campaign, highlighting John F. Kennedy's strategic use of state primaries to secure the Democratic presidential nomination. Kennedy's decision to focus on winning state primaries, particularly in Wisconsin, marked an unconventional strategy at a time when candidates often dismissed primaries as inconsequential. The book emphasizes the significance of Wisconsin in shaping the political narrative, showcasing the challenges Kennedy faced from seasoned opponents like Hubert Humphrey. It delves into the political landscape of the time, detailing Kennedy's relationships with figures like Joseph McCarthy and his support for fellow Democrat William Proxmire. The primary itself, marked by its open nature and high voter turnout, ultimately solidified Kennedy's path to the nomination. The author paints a picture of the campaign, exploring the intricacies of Kennedy's strategy, his connections with local politicians, and the profound impact of his victory on the political landscape. Kennedy's commitment to campaigning and connecting with voters, despite initial setbacks, becomes a central theme, emphasizing the transformative power of strategic and personal political engagement.
Five key highlights from the material include:
1. Innovative Campaign Strategy: The book underscores Kennedy's pioneering approach of focusing on state primaries to secure the Democratic nomination, challenging the traditional view of primaries as mere "beauty contests."
2. Strategic Relationships: The narrative explores Kennedy's complex relationships with influential figures like Joseph McCarthy and William Proxmire, shedding light on the political dynamics that influenced the campaign.
3. Challenges Faced by Humphrey: Hollars highlights the obstacles faced by Hubert Humphrey, Kennedy's opponent, who struggled with indecision and missed opportunities in building campaign infrastructure, ultimately contributing to his loss.
4. High-Stakes Wisconsin Primary: The book emphasizes the unique and crucial role played by the Wisconsin primary in shaping the course of the election, especially given its open nature, high voter turnout, and potential to determine the nominee.
5. Kennedy's Impact on Civil Rights: The narrative touches on Kennedy's evolving understanding of civil rights, particularly his pivotal moment at an NAACP rally, showcasing his ability to connect with diverse audiences and navigate racial tensions.
The most important lesson from "Wisconsin For Kennedy" lies in the transformative power of strategic campaigning. Kennedy's commitment to engaging with voters, adapting to unique state dynamics, and effectively leveraging media paved the way for his historic victory. The book serves as a reminder of the enduring principles of effective political campaigning and the significant impact that strategic decisions can have on the course of history.
Five key highlights from the material include:
1. Innovative Campaign Strategy: The book underscores Kennedy's pioneering approach of focusing on state primaries to secure the Democratic nomination, challenging the traditional view of primaries as mere "beauty contests."
2. Strategic Relationships: The narrative explores Kennedy's complex relationships with influential figures like Joseph McCarthy and William Proxmire, shedding light on the political dynamics that influenced the campaign.
3. Challenges Faced by Humphrey: Hollars highlights the obstacles faced by Hubert Humphrey, Kennedy's opponent, who struggled with indecision and missed opportunities in building campaign infrastructure, ultimately contributing to his loss.
4. High-Stakes Wisconsin Primary: The book emphasizes the unique and crucial role played by the Wisconsin primary in shaping the course of the election, especially given its open nature, high voter turnout, and potential to determine the nominee.
5. Kennedy's Impact on Civil Rights: The narrative touches on Kennedy's evolving understanding of civil rights, particularly his pivotal moment at an NAACP rally, showcasing his ability to connect with diverse audiences and navigate racial tensions.
The most important lesson from "Wisconsin For Kennedy" lies in the transformative power of strategic campaigning. Kennedy's commitment to engaging with voters, adapting to unique state dynamics, and effectively leveraging media paved the way for his historic victory. The book serves as a reminder of the enduring principles of effective political campaigning and the significant impact that strategic decisions can have on the course of history.
June 16, 2024
There are many books about John F. Kennedy, but this one brings new perspectives to the Kennedy literature. It focuses primarily on the 1960 Wisconsin Presidential Primary and its crucial role in making a president.
The book sets the stage with a cast of characters with a brief description of each: the Kennedy clan, their opponent, Hubert Humphrey, and Wisconsin operatives, including future governor Patrick Lucey, Madison Mayor Ivan Nestingen and Vel Phillips, the first black to serve on Milwaukee’s Common Council, among others. It continues with an account of the October 28, 1959 of Family members and key advisors at the Senator’s Hyannis Port home at which the decision to seek the nomination was made.
In Wisconsin, the story began long before that autumn day in 1959. Cranberry farmer, Phileo Nash, had worked with President Truman and, as early as the 1948 Democratic Convention, saw the future in Hubert Humphrey. During the 1952 Convention, Patrick Lucey saw a rising star in John F. Kennedy, whom he met at the Stock Yard Inn in Chicago. Ivan Nestingen, who had fought Senator Joseph McCarthy, came to the 1956 Convention suspicious of Kennedy for his friendship of and unwillingness to oppose McCarthy, but Kennedy’s performance opened the door to future support.
Not all the initiative was on the Wisconsin side. Seeking to lay the groundwork for a campaign, Kennedy traveled in support of the successful senate campaign of William Proxmire. Despite a lack of gratitude from the candidate, who was grudging beneficiary, at best, the 1957 appearances introduced JFK to other Wisconsin personalities, perhaps most importantly Vel Phillips, with whom he took time to explain his vote on an issue of importance to her, thereby winning her admiration and respect, which would prove helpful in gaining black votes.
The decision to enter the Wisconsin primary was not a foregone conclusion. It required a head-on contest with Senator Hubert Humphrey from neighboring Minnesota, who was often dubbed “Wisconsin’s third Senator”, when it was exclusively represented by Republicans. Humphrey had proximity, familiarity with farm issues and Protestant religion. Kennedy had a broad smile, Catholic religion, an enthusiastic family and money. Lots of money.
The contest was different from contemporary ones. Primaries were held on only 15 states and the District of Columbia and their influence on delegate selection was varied. Kennedy needed to show voter appeal outside of the Northeast and in areas lacking large numbers of Catholics among the electorate. In an era of 30 second spots and brief appearances, it boggles the mind to imagine candidates. their families and staffs spending weeks in a state, standing outside factories, attending meetings at homes, just going anywhere to meet individual voters. Some incidents are humorous, such as Jack pushing a car through Kenosha snow, Ted being coaxed into making a ski jump at Tomahawk Ridge, RFK having to call headquarters to find out where he was and where he was to go, and Jackie taking over a grocery loudspeaker to tell shoppers about her husband.
Kennedy won the primary, but not decisively enough to ensure victory, so the campaign moved on to West Virginia. We know he won the nomination and election. Some of his Badger collaborators followed him to Washington, Patrick Lucey chose to remain in Madison, and Jerry Bruno was involved in planning for the fateful trip to Dallas.
“Wisconsin For Kennedy” provides introductions to the Wisconsin operatives who played crucial parts in JFK’s road to the White House. It also provides fascinating insights into on-the-ground, voter-by-voter campaign style prevalent in 1960. Whether your interest is local or national, “Wisconsin For Kennedy” is a rewarding read.
I did receive a free copy of this book without an obligation to post a review.
The book sets the stage with a cast of characters with a brief description of each: the Kennedy clan, their opponent, Hubert Humphrey, and Wisconsin operatives, including future governor Patrick Lucey, Madison Mayor Ivan Nestingen and Vel Phillips, the first black to serve on Milwaukee’s Common Council, among others. It continues with an account of the October 28, 1959 of Family members and key advisors at the Senator’s Hyannis Port home at which the decision to seek the nomination was made.
In Wisconsin, the story began long before that autumn day in 1959. Cranberry farmer, Phileo Nash, had worked with President Truman and, as early as the 1948 Democratic Convention, saw the future in Hubert Humphrey. During the 1952 Convention, Patrick Lucey saw a rising star in John F. Kennedy, whom he met at the Stock Yard Inn in Chicago. Ivan Nestingen, who had fought Senator Joseph McCarthy, came to the 1956 Convention suspicious of Kennedy for his friendship of and unwillingness to oppose McCarthy, but Kennedy’s performance opened the door to future support.
Not all the initiative was on the Wisconsin side. Seeking to lay the groundwork for a campaign, Kennedy traveled in support of the successful senate campaign of William Proxmire. Despite a lack of gratitude from the candidate, who was grudging beneficiary, at best, the 1957 appearances introduced JFK to other Wisconsin personalities, perhaps most importantly Vel Phillips, with whom he took time to explain his vote on an issue of importance to her, thereby winning her admiration and respect, which would prove helpful in gaining black votes.
The decision to enter the Wisconsin primary was not a foregone conclusion. It required a head-on contest with Senator Hubert Humphrey from neighboring Minnesota, who was often dubbed “Wisconsin’s third Senator”, when it was exclusively represented by Republicans. Humphrey had proximity, familiarity with farm issues and Protestant religion. Kennedy had a broad smile, Catholic religion, an enthusiastic family and money. Lots of money.
The contest was different from contemporary ones. Primaries were held on only 15 states and the District of Columbia and their influence on delegate selection was varied. Kennedy needed to show voter appeal outside of the Northeast and in areas lacking large numbers of Catholics among the electorate. In an era of 30 second spots and brief appearances, it boggles the mind to imagine candidates. their families and staffs spending weeks in a state, standing outside factories, attending meetings at homes, just going anywhere to meet individual voters. Some incidents are humorous, such as Jack pushing a car through Kenosha snow, Ted being coaxed into making a ski jump at Tomahawk Ridge, RFK having to call headquarters to find out where he was and where he was to go, and Jackie taking over a grocery loudspeaker to tell shoppers about her husband.
Kennedy won the primary, but not decisively enough to ensure victory, so the campaign moved on to West Virginia. We know he won the nomination and election. Some of his Badger collaborators followed him to Washington, Patrick Lucey chose to remain in Madison, and Jerry Bruno was involved in planning for the fateful trip to Dallas.
“Wisconsin For Kennedy” provides introductions to the Wisconsin operatives who played crucial parts in JFK’s road to the White House. It also provides fascinating insights into on-the-ground, voter-by-voter campaign style prevalent in 1960. Whether your interest is local or national, “Wisconsin For Kennedy” is a rewarding read.
I did receive a free copy of this book without an obligation to post a review.
March 27, 2024
Using detailed records, interviews, a little creativity, and lots of images, BJ Hollars crafts a descriptive and unique rise to office through the eyes of several players for President John F. Kennedy. The author carefully sets the stage for Kennedy’s dizzying primary campaign in Wisconsin decades before the campaign by introducing his important future players via Democratic Convention dates and highlight events leading up to the 1960 convention: Philleo Nash, special assistant to President Truman, later chair of the WDNC, and lieutenant governor; future governor Pat Lucey, Ivan Nestingan, mayor of Madison, William Proxmire’s aide, Jerry Bruno, and Milwaukee’s Vel Phillips, recently elected to the Common Council. Each of these people were introduced to Kennedy prior to 1960, whether to help on another campaign, or simply because of the office held, and each became an important influence in Kennedy’s campaign for the White House.
Hollars’ style of setting down historical facts with storytelling charm create an easy-flowing tale of political intrigue around the JFK era, from McCarthyism, marital mishaps, and civil unrest in all its ugliest forms, to the magnetism that Jack Kennedy exuded wherever he went, will resonate with readers of popular history. The book is filled with images, casual conversation from the records, and even little-known tidbits about Jackie Kennedy was reading while reluctantly on the campaign trail, and the drama of her early miscarriages.
It's a story for the Wisconsinites who came alongside Kennedy, Hollars says in his introductory note, where he also acknowledges valuable contributions made by Wisconsin women; roles that were not as well documented. I’m glad he was able to include a great deal of material about Vel Phillips. The book doesn’t end with the Wisconsin primary. Told in three parts, the last part is the aftermath of the election, the lessons learned from dealing with people across the nation, convincing them to support Kennedy’s election. There is a story of going for the personal touch in West Virginia with Jerry Bruno as one of the advance scouts where the candidate got a real taste of poverty. The key players attended the inauguration in January of 1961, where stories about Robert Frost bring the story to relatable level. Hollars finishes the work with another the story of the president’s reasons and route that final fatal day in Dallas, Texas, in 1963. Jerry Bruno remained one of the president’s advance scouts, and had been heavily involved in setting up the stops and the parade route. He was bothered by the outcome ever afterward.
Included is a lengthy bibliography, notes, and index. The book is a great addition to Wisconsin lore.
Hollars’ style of setting down historical facts with storytelling charm create an easy-flowing tale of political intrigue around the JFK era, from McCarthyism, marital mishaps, and civil unrest in all its ugliest forms, to the magnetism that Jack Kennedy exuded wherever he went, will resonate with readers of popular history. The book is filled with images, casual conversation from the records, and even little-known tidbits about Jackie Kennedy was reading while reluctantly on the campaign trail, and the drama of her early miscarriages.
It's a story for the Wisconsinites who came alongside Kennedy, Hollars says in his introductory note, where he also acknowledges valuable contributions made by Wisconsin women; roles that were not as well documented. I’m glad he was able to include a great deal of material about Vel Phillips. The book doesn’t end with the Wisconsin primary. Told in three parts, the last part is the aftermath of the election, the lessons learned from dealing with people across the nation, convincing them to support Kennedy’s election. There is a story of going for the personal touch in West Virginia with Jerry Bruno as one of the advance scouts where the candidate got a real taste of poverty. The key players attended the inauguration in January of 1961, where stories about Robert Frost bring the story to relatable level. Hollars finishes the work with another the story of the president’s reasons and route that final fatal day in Dallas, Texas, in 1963. Jerry Bruno remained one of the president’s advance scouts, and had been heavily involved in setting up the stops and the parade route. He was bothered by the outcome ever afterward.
Included is a lengthy bibliography, notes, and index. The book is a great addition to Wisconsin lore.
February 18, 2025
Wonderful book. Easy reading. Was good to read about what happened in the Wisconsin primary. I am a Kennedy fan so enjoyed going down memory lane. Amazingly good author.
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