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The Situation Room: The Inside Story of Presidents in Crisis
Goodreads Choice Award
Nominee for Readers' Favorite History & Biography (2024)George Stephanopoulos, former senior advisor to President Clinton and for more than 20 years host of This Week and Good Morning America , recounts never-before-told crises that decided the course of history, from the place 12 presidents made their highest-pressure the White House Situation Room.No room better defines American power and its role in the world than the White House Situation Room. And yet, none is more shrouded in secrecy and mystery. Created under President Kennedy, the Sit Room has been the epicenter of crisis management for presidents for more than six decades. Time and again, the decisions made within the Sit Room complex affect the lives of every person on this planet. Detailing close calls made and disasters narrowly averted, THE SITUATION ROOM will take readers through dramatic turning points in a dozen presidential administrations, THE SITUATION ROOM is the definitive, past-the-security-clearance look at the room where it happened, and the people—the famous and those you've never heard of—who have made history within its walls.
12 pages, Audiobook
First published May 14, 2024
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January 21, 2025
“The National Daily Situation Room would be a permanent organization…It would serve as a management tool by providing intelligence, communications, briefing, display and monitor facilities.”
The author is more than a television host of a popular morning show or his own show, “This Week with George Stephanopoulos.” He is a political commentator and former Democratic advisor. He was also the Communications Director for the 1992 presidential campaign of Bill Clinton before becoming his White House Communications Director. His resume is extensive, and so when this book came out, I thought it would be worth reading. I am glad I did. I now offer you, my review.
He tells us that the “Sit Room” isn’t much to look at, it actually is located in the White House basement. And, to him, it really is quite the modest cramped conference room. It wasn’t until August 2023 that it got a pretty facelift renovation. But (facelift or not) it is what takes place in this room that makes the difference.
The Situation Room began with President John F. Kennedy, and it had some captivating historical moments through the variety of presidents since.
A key statement that caught my eye was shared early on when the author wrote…
“In the six decades since the creation of the Situation Room, it has been the crisis center during America’s catastrophes. The men and women of the Sit Room have dealt with nuclear scares, the assassination of a president and attempts on two others. They stayed at their posts on 9/11, when the White House itself was the target of terrorists. And they tracked and analyzed American wars that cost hundreds of thousands of lives and billions upon billions of dollars. But never before had they dealt with an insurrection against our own government, inspired by the president of the United States.”
How does one feel, reading this paragraph, let alone this last sentence?
“Your allegiance to your country supersedes your allegiance to your role.”
Digest that statement above for a moment. It was uttered on January 6, 2021 by Mike Steigler, an intelligence analyst that worked at the White House.
The author clearly felt concerned as well when he stated, “those dueling loyalties had never been tested like this.”
In the chapter, “Postcards from the Edge” there is more detail on that president’s attitude towards the Situation Room and the problems overall with what occurred during his time in office.
And thus, throughout this book the author shares a lot of dynamic and engrossing Situation Room stories. And these same stories, were not typically or outwardly known to the public. Because these are the stories of what really happened “behind the scenes” regarding the issues we thought we laymen always knew – like when both Presidents Kennedy and Reagan were shot. But as laymen, we clearly did not.
Readers will get an insider view into each president’s attitude toward the Situation Room experience. And, how they viewed their role.
But it wasn’t even about just the various incidents that occurred under their watch. As an example, what will readers learn about President Nixon’s lack of interest in participating in those important Situation Room discussions? And, what circumvented President Carter’s negotiations in getting the hostages out of Iran? Or what really happened in those hours during the 9/11 attacks? Can we even imagine what it took to finally finding Osama bin Laden under President Obama’s leadership?
The author covers the Situation Room through President Biden. The author went through over 100 interviews and intensive research for this book. He also included black and white and color photographs throughout the chapters.
This is a fascinating, easy-to-read, inspiring, page-turning book that almost reads like fiction. For those interested in real history, this will be a worthwhile read.
The author is more than a television host of a popular morning show or his own show, “This Week with George Stephanopoulos.” He is a political commentator and former Democratic advisor. He was also the Communications Director for the 1992 presidential campaign of Bill Clinton before becoming his White House Communications Director. His resume is extensive, and so when this book came out, I thought it would be worth reading. I am glad I did. I now offer you, my review.
He tells us that the “Sit Room” isn’t much to look at, it actually is located in the White House basement. And, to him, it really is quite the modest cramped conference room. It wasn’t until August 2023 that it got a pretty facelift renovation. But (facelift or not) it is what takes place in this room that makes the difference.
The Situation Room began with President John F. Kennedy, and it had some captivating historical moments through the variety of presidents since.
A key statement that caught my eye was shared early on when the author wrote…
“In the six decades since the creation of the Situation Room, it has been the crisis center during America’s catastrophes. The men and women of the Sit Room have dealt with nuclear scares, the assassination of a president and attempts on two others. They stayed at their posts on 9/11, when the White House itself was the target of terrorists. And they tracked and analyzed American wars that cost hundreds of thousands of lives and billions upon billions of dollars. But never before had they dealt with an insurrection against our own government, inspired by the president of the United States.”
How does one feel, reading this paragraph, let alone this last sentence?
“Your allegiance to your country supersedes your allegiance to your role.”
Digest that statement above for a moment. It was uttered on January 6, 2021 by Mike Steigler, an intelligence analyst that worked at the White House.
The author clearly felt concerned as well when he stated, “those dueling loyalties had never been tested like this.”
In the chapter, “Postcards from the Edge” there is more detail on that president’s attitude towards the Situation Room and the problems overall with what occurred during his time in office.
And thus, throughout this book the author shares a lot of dynamic and engrossing Situation Room stories. And these same stories, were not typically or outwardly known to the public. Because these are the stories of what really happened “behind the scenes” regarding the issues we thought we laymen always knew – like when both Presidents Kennedy and Reagan were shot. But as laymen, we clearly did not.
Readers will get an insider view into each president’s attitude toward the Situation Room experience. And, how they viewed their role.
But it wasn’t even about just the various incidents that occurred under their watch. As an example, what will readers learn about President Nixon’s lack of interest in participating in those important Situation Room discussions? And, what circumvented President Carter’s negotiations in getting the hostages out of Iran? Or what really happened in those hours during the 9/11 attacks? Can we even imagine what it took to finally finding Osama bin Laden under President Obama’s leadership?
The author covers the Situation Room through President Biden. The author went through over 100 interviews and intensive research for this book. He also included black and white and color photographs throughout the chapters.
This is a fascinating, easy-to-read, inspiring, page-turning book that almost reads like fiction. For those interested in real history, this will be a worthwhile read.
May 14, 2024
“The Situation Room” by George Stephanopoulos is an excellent history of the White House communications and decision-making center first established during the Kennedy administration. Readers interested in the Presidency, The White House, and how various modern Presidents and their administrations have utilized the room—and how they made decisions during national crises—will want to add it to their libraries.
As Mr. Stephanopoulos explains: many presidents have found the need for a “nerve center” during times of crisis. Lincoln spent hours in the War Department’s telegraph office keeping abreast of battlefield reports. FDR converted the White House billiards room into the Map Room which he came to twice each day to monitor the progress of WWII. But it wasn’t until the 1961 Bay of Pigs incident with its various communications failures that the Kennedy Administration converted the White House’s basement bowling alley into the Situation Room.
Stephanopoulos shows us the Situation Room in action during various crises over the next 60 years: The Cuban Missile Crisis, the Kennedy Assassination, The Viet Nam War, the Nixon Resignation, the Iranian Hostage Crisis and the failed “Desert One” rescue attempt, the attempted assassination of President Reagan, Desert Storm, 9/11, and the hunt for Osama Bin Laden—just to mention a few—all the way up to the Biden Administration’s handling of the war in Ukraine.
Along the way, he details the various physical and technological upgrades the center has received. What began as a small, drab conference room and support offices bearing no resemblance to what was portrayed in movies like “Dr. Strangelove” is now a state-of-the-art center for communications and decision-making.
In exploring how these crises were managed, Mr. Stephanopoulos explains how each administration utilized the Situation Room, as well as the differences between them. Some used the center well and with great success. Others fared poorly. Presidents who assembled a collegial, collaborative team that followed a well-thought-out process based on past experiences, including mistakes, did well. Those who chose to “go it alone” did not.
Mr. Stephanopoulos includes many fascinating anecdotes, some of which include the actions and reactions of other world leaders such as Kruschev, Putin, Thatcher, and even then-Prince Charles. He treats most of the presidents and aides serving over the last 60 years very evenhandedly, taking pains to credit the discipline, dedication, and professionalism of many NSC political appointees (e.g., Brent Scowcroft, Bob Gates, Madeline Albright) and most especially, of the non-political staff assigned to the Situation Room. (However, fans of former Presidents Trump and Nixon should know that Mr. Stephanopoulos’s pen does not treat those two men kindly.)
In conclusion, I found “The Situation Room” to be a well-written, riveting exploration of one of the most vital components of the Executive Branch; and fully deserving of a five-star rating.
My thanks to NetGalley, author George Stephanopoulos, and publisher Grand Central Publishing for providing me with a complimentary ARC. The foregoing is my independent opinion.
As Mr. Stephanopoulos explains: many presidents have found the need for a “nerve center” during times of crisis. Lincoln spent hours in the War Department’s telegraph office keeping abreast of battlefield reports. FDR converted the White House billiards room into the Map Room which he came to twice each day to monitor the progress of WWII. But it wasn’t until the 1961 Bay of Pigs incident with its various communications failures that the Kennedy Administration converted the White House’s basement bowling alley into the Situation Room.
Stephanopoulos shows us the Situation Room in action during various crises over the next 60 years: The Cuban Missile Crisis, the Kennedy Assassination, The Viet Nam War, the Nixon Resignation, the Iranian Hostage Crisis and the failed “Desert One” rescue attempt, the attempted assassination of President Reagan, Desert Storm, 9/11, and the hunt for Osama Bin Laden—just to mention a few—all the way up to the Biden Administration’s handling of the war in Ukraine.
Along the way, he details the various physical and technological upgrades the center has received. What began as a small, drab conference room and support offices bearing no resemblance to what was portrayed in movies like “Dr. Strangelove” is now a state-of-the-art center for communications and decision-making.
In exploring how these crises were managed, Mr. Stephanopoulos explains how each administration utilized the Situation Room, as well as the differences between them. Some used the center well and with great success. Others fared poorly. Presidents who assembled a collegial, collaborative team that followed a well-thought-out process based on past experiences, including mistakes, did well. Those who chose to “go it alone” did not.
Mr. Stephanopoulos includes many fascinating anecdotes, some of which include the actions and reactions of other world leaders such as Kruschev, Putin, Thatcher, and even then-Prince Charles. He treats most of the presidents and aides serving over the last 60 years very evenhandedly, taking pains to credit the discipline, dedication, and professionalism of many NSC political appointees (e.g., Brent Scowcroft, Bob Gates, Madeline Albright) and most especially, of the non-political staff assigned to the Situation Room. (However, fans of former Presidents Trump and Nixon should know that Mr. Stephanopoulos’s pen does not treat those two men kindly.)
In conclusion, I found “The Situation Room” to be a well-written, riveting exploration of one of the most vital components of the Executive Branch; and fully deserving of a five-star rating.
My thanks to NetGalley, author George Stephanopoulos, and publisher Grand Central Publishing for providing me with a complimentary ARC. The foregoing is my independent opinion.
July 29, 2025
While many will have heard of the Situation Room within the White House, few likely know of its creation or some key moments in its history. George Stephanopoulos pens this detailed book about the room, the presidents who used it, and the actors who played key roles as advisors. Exploring vignettes from each of the presidencies since it was created, Stephanopoulos entertains and educates in equal measure. A great peek behind the curtain that is sure to keep the reader hooked.
High-pressure situations are the norm when working in the White House. George Stephanopoulos discusses this in the early part of the book, while also highlighting that the height of the Cold War meant secure conversations became essential. During the Kennedy Administratuon, talks of creating an area where top secret conversations could be had became a reality with the creation of the Situation Room. Discussions with key players could also ensure an ongoing and up-to-the minute planning conversation to guarantee success. The creation of the Situation Room would allow this, beginning a decades-long evolution to assure America was in the know.
As Stephanopoulos notes during the ongoing chapters, the more things advanced, the more holes were discovered. Technology would need to be enhanced to ensure even more secrecy and keep America ahead of others. This was tested many times. Major crises also unfolded in this room, from a failed rescue mission in Iran during the Carter Administration, to September 11, 2001, through to Obama’s capture of Osama bin Laden. Stephanopoulos keeps the reader in the middle of the mix from the outset.
Exploring twelve presidencies, Stephanopoulos highlights their strengths and weaknesses from the perspective of security and use of the Situation Room. Some presidents admired the secrecy and being in the know, while others preferred to stay away from the ‘sealed can’ as much as possible. Stephanopoulos delivers a telling account of that room that makes its way into many movies, but is misunderstood by most people. I am even more curious about the inner workings of the White House and some of its more secretive aspects.
I have long enjoyed political inner workings, revealing truths not always reported at the time news hits the wire. George Stephanopoulos delivers that and more in this book, keeping the reader in the middle of the action from the outset. Each chapter handles a specific president and their views on the Situation Room. The reader learns as much as is likely possible, shedding light on things about which I had no idea. Told in a balance of seriousness and light banter, George Stephanopoulos entertains the reader with a great deal. Interviews and insights fill the pages of this book and keep the intel sharp and on point. I will have to look for more by George Stephanopoulos soon.
Kudos, Mr. Stephanopoulos, for a great reading experience.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
High-pressure situations are the norm when working in the White House. George Stephanopoulos discusses this in the early part of the book, while also highlighting that the height of the Cold War meant secure conversations became essential. During the Kennedy Administratuon, talks of creating an area where top secret conversations could be had became a reality with the creation of the Situation Room. Discussions with key players could also ensure an ongoing and up-to-the minute planning conversation to guarantee success. The creation of the Situation Room would allow this, beginning a decades-long evolution to assure America was in the know.
As Stephanopoulos notes during the ongoing chapters, the more things advanced, the more holes were discovered. Technology would need to be enhanced to ensure even more secrecy and keep America ahead of others. This was tested many times. Major crises also unfolded in this room, from a failed rescue mission in Iran during the Carter Administration, to September 11, 2001, through to Obama’s capture of Osama bin Laden. Stephanopoulos keeps the reader in the middle of the mix from the outset.
Exploring twelve presidencies, Stephanopoulos highlights their strengths and weaknesses from the perspective of security and use of the Situation Room. Some presidents admired the secrecy and being in the know, while others preferred to stay away from the ‘sealed can’ as much as possible. Stephanopoulos delivers a telling account of that room that makes its way into many movies, but is misunderstood by most people. I am even more curious about the inner workings of the White House and some of its more secretive aspects.
I have long enjoyed political inner workings, revealing truths not always reported at the time news hits the wire. George Stephanopoulos delivers that and more in this book, keeping the reader in the middle of the action from the outset. Each chapter handles a specific president and their views on the Situation Room. The reader learns as much as is likely possible, shedding light on things about which I had no idea. Told in a balance of seriousness and light banter, George Stephanopoulos entertains the reader with a great deal. Interviews and insights fill the pages of this book and keep the intel sharp and on point. I will have to look for more by George Stephanopoulos soon.
Kudos, Mr. Stephanopoulos, for a great reading experience.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
October 6, 2024
The Situation Room was the easiest and most enjoyable nonfiction I have read in a while.
The titular room, located in the basement of the White House, was first built in 1961. It is the location where data is collected and analyzed for the president and his aides. John F Kennedy ordered it to be created following the Bay of Pigs disaster. The inspiration for it grew out of a study, “Concept for National Cold War Operations,” put together by Air Force military researchers and sent to JFK on April 7, 1961. The room is still there and functioning.
The subtitle of the book is The Inside Story of Presidents in Crisis. What I got from reading it was an overview of all the presidents from Kennedy to Biden and the wars, crises, and incidents they faced. A unique aspect of the Situation Room and how it works is that the staff are all topnotch individuals but maintain a nonpartisan stance. Their job is to keep the presidents they serve supplied with all the data needed to make decisions. That nonpartisan position was hardest to maintain during the Trump presidency.
A great overview of the past 63 years of American government and extremely timely. If not for one of my reading groups, I might not have read this exciting story. I am so glad I did.
The titular room, located in the basement of the White House, was first built in 1961. It is the location where data is collected and analyzed for the president and his aides. John F Kennedy ordered it to be created following the Bay of Pigs disaster. The inspiration for it grew out of a study, “Concept for National Cold War Operations,” put together by Air Force military researchers and sent to JFK on April 7, 1961. The room is still there and functioning.
The subtitle of the book is The Inside Story of Presidents in Crisis. What I got from reading it was an overview of all the presidents from Kennedy to Biden and the wars, crises, and incidents they faced. A unique aspect of the Situation Room and how it works is that the staff are all topnotch individuals but maintain a nonpartisan stance. Their job is to keep the presidents they serve supplied with all the data needed to make decisions. That nonpartisan position was hardest to maintain during the Trump presidency.
A great overview of the past 63 years of American government and extremely timely. If not for one of my reading groups, I might not have read this exciting story. I am so glad I did.
May 25, 2024
This was the perfect blend of history and human. Giving insight in historical events as well as the people who worked through them and the presidents who oversaw them.
-Obama was literally the chillest president
-The Trump stories made my tummy hurt
-The audiobook featuring clips from recordings and interviews so you got to hear the actual voice’s of those interviewed, which was a surprise and delight!
-Obama was literally the chillest president
-The Trump stories made my tummy hurt
-The audiobook featuring clips from recordings and interviews so you got to hear the actual voice’s of those interviewed, which was a surprise and delight!
November 8, 2024
Really liked 90% of this book. The 10% I didn’t care for was the authors clear bias coming through far too strong on a specific president. The book turned from largely factual to largely opinion at the flip of a page. What made this book a 3 for me instead of a 4 was the missed opportunity to make 9/11 the focal point. Instead, the book’s introduction focused on January 6. I assume the author was trying to draw the reader in by starting the book with January 6 but I feel as though he missed an opportunity to draw both sides of isle in by starting with 9/11, one of the most unifying moments in American history. A good book that could have been great.
October 31, 2024
Though I typically prefer my nonfiction via audiobook, The Situation Room surprised me with some of the production choices. So, I had to switch to print from the library, and it worked so much better for me. Plus, I got the benefit of the pictures included. In both the audiobook and print versions, some sections came across as a bit too dry, too reporter-like. Admittedly, that feels like George’s authentic voice, though. Regardless, this was well-crafted, incredibly researched, and full of enthusiasm for the subject.
One issue that kept this from being five stars for me was that it was a bit overloaded with (unsurprisingly) a bunch of white men, and I had trouble keeping them straight, especially when it came to people or events from before my “news awareness” age. George would often reintroduce someone with the sentiment of, “Remember this one white guy from LBJ’s era? Here he is again, thirty years later.” No, George, I don’t remember him.
All in all, this was a fascinating look at a wide range of administrations and how they each responded to crises—both through their unique approaches and with the limitations or advancements in technology at the time. Like George, I’m surprised this was the first book detailing the history of this hugely important meeting point.
One issue that kept this from being five stars for me was that it was a bit overloaded with (unsurprisingly) a bunch of white men, and I had trouble keeping them straight, especially when it came to people or events from before my “news awareness” age. George would often reintroduce someone with the sentiment of, “Remember this one white guy from LBJ’s era? Here he is again, thirty years later.” No, George, I don’t remember him.
All in all, this was a fascinating look at a wide range of administrations and how they each responded to crises—both through their unique approaches and with the limitations or advancements in technology at the time. Like George, I’m surprised this was the first book detailing the history of this hugely important meeting point.
February 16, 2024
In “The Situation Room”, Stephanopoulos walks us through different presidential crises that took place in the “The Sit Room”. We learn about the Kennedy Assassination, The Cuban Missile Crisis, The Vietnam War, the Reagan shooting, 9/11 and the January 6th insurrection, naming just a few, and how they were handled. The Nixon and Trump administrations show a lot of ineptitude and fault.
I learned an incredible amount of information and found some of it differed from what I always thought. I’m so glad I read this book to set my mind straight.
I give this book 4 stars, it did drag on in spots, but I do recommend it to anyone interested in politics and history. Thank you, NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for the advanced copy.
I learned an incredible amount of information and found some of it differed from what I always thought. I’m so glad I read this book to set my mind straight.
I give this book 4 stars, it did drag on in spots, but I do recommend it to anyone interested in politics and history. Thank you, NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for the advanced copy.
October 27, 2024
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This is the exact type of nonfiction book that I completely devour and that's exactly what I did with this book. I started reading it after work and suddenly 3 hours had passed and I needed to turn a lamp on to finish.
This book is accessible, fast-paced, and entirely gripping. I love history and politics and this book is the perfect blend of those topics. Covering the biggest crises dealt with in the Situation Room at the White House by 12 different presidents, this book covers a broad scope of historical and geopolitical events. It was both engaging and terrifying to read about how many close calls to major life-altering world fallout we’ve had during these crises. I found myself pausing so I could google and research more about the various events, which is the highest compliment I can pay to nonfiction. If your book encourages me to learn more beyond the pages themselves, it’s a job well done!
I also gave this book to my mom after I read it and she loves it too and then gifted it to my brother so it has made a trip around my family at this point and it has been enjoyed by all who have read it.
Thanks to Grand Central Pub for the gifted arc copy!
This is the exact type of nonfiction book that I completely devour and that's exactly what I did with this book. I started reading it after work and suddenly 3 hours had passed and I needed to turn a lamp on to finish.
This book is accessible, fast-paced, and entirely gripping. I love history and politics and this book is the perfect blend of those topics. Covering the biggest crises dealt with in the Situation Room at the White House by 12 different presidents, this book covers a broad scope of historical and geopolitical events. It was both engaging and terrifying to read about how many close calls to major life-altering world fallout we’ve had during these crises. I found myself pausing so I could google and research more about the various events, which is the highest compliment I can pay to nonfiction. If your book encourages me to learn more beyond the pages themselves, it’s a job well done!
I also gave this book to my mom after I read it and she loves it too and then gifted it to my brother so it has made a trip around my family at this point and it has been enjoyed by all who have read it.
Thanks to Grand Central Pub for the gifted arc copy!
May 18, 2024
Thank you to the publisher and for NetGalley, which provided me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.
I just finished The Situation Room: The Inside Story Of Presidents In Crisis, by George Stephanopoulos.
This was an excellent look at behind the scenes in the situation room during times of crisis. The book also discusses how the room works during its every day operation.
The book is filled with fascinating tidbits and stories. One of the most alarming stories was how, in the middle of the Yom Kippur War, President Nixon was out of commission because he was having a mental breakdown, due to Watergate. Al Haig was, according to one witness, acting as though he was the president, while Kissinger was also running the show with him. To make matters worse, Brezhnev was out of commission in the Kremlin, due to alcohol and sleeping pills, while events were escalating to the point where nuclear war was a realistic scenario.
There are other very interesting tidbits, such as during Clinton’s second term, newspaper articles from the New York Times and Washington Post were still be circulated in the situation room by making photocopies of the newspapers and faxing them and they didn’t get internet access until 1998. Also, how Richard Clarke sat in the situation room in the days following 9/11 with a loaded gun on him.
We also learn in the book that the Situation Room has a new name. It’s been called WHSR (pronounced whizzer) by the “cool kids.” But, I have to agree with Stephanopoulos that it’s not a term I will ever use and I hope that it never catches on.
I give this book an A. Goodreads and NetGalley require grades on a 1-5 star system. In my personal conversion system, an A equates to 5 stars. (A or A+: 5 stars, B+: 4 stars, B: 3 stars, C: 2 stars, D or F: 1 star).
I just finished The Situation Room: The Inside Story Of Presidents In Crisis, by George Stephanopoulos.
This was an excellent look at behind the scenes in the situation room during times of crisis. The book also discusses how the room works during its every day operation.
The book is filled with fascinating tidbits and stories. One of the most alarming stories was how, in the middle of the Yom Kippur War, President Nixon was out of commission because he was having a mental breakdown, due to Watergate. Al Haig was, according to one witness, acting as though he was the president, while Kissinger was also running the show with him. To make matters worse, Brezhnev was out of commission in the Kremlin, due to alcohol and sleeping pills, while events were escalating to the point where nuclear war was a realistic scenario.
There are other very interesting tidbits, such as during Clinton’s second term, newspaper articles from the New York Times and Washington Post were still be circulated in the situation room by making photocopies of the newspapers and faxing them and they didn’t get internet access until 1998. Also, how Richard Clarke sat in the situation room in the days following 9/11 with a loaded gun on him.
We also learn in the book that the Situation Room has a new name. It’s been called WHSR (pronounced whizzer) by the “cool kids.” But, I have to agree with Stephanopoulos that it’s not a term I will ever use and I hope that it never catches on.
I give this book an A. Goodreads and NetGalley require grades on a 1-5 star system. In my personal conversion system, an A equates to 5 stars. (A or A+: 5 stars, B+: 4 stars, B: 3 stars, C: 2 stars, D or F: 1 star).
January 17, 2025
I really really enjoyed this book up until the last couple of chapters. I learned so much about how crisis was handled by each of the presidents. Once the author began the chapter on president Trump, he lost his ability to be an informative writer and let his emotions and personal opinions make his chapter extremely hard to read. This chapter didn’t even follow the same pattern as all of the other chapters on the presidents.
This unfortunately took my 4 star review and dropped it to barely a 3 star review. If I was the editor of this book, I would have asked the author to completely try again on the last two chapters.
This unfortunately took my 4 star review and dropped it to barely a 3 star review. If I was the editor of this book, I would have asked the author to completely try again on the last two chapters.
July 25, 2024
Almost a DNF due to a slow middle section. However, the book became more engaging. The part of 9/11 and killing Bin Laden were well written.
October 22, 2024
This is undoubtedly my new favorite non-fiction book, and may even be my new favorite book period. I find that I tend to really enjoy reading books written by news reporters, and The Situation Room is an excellent example of that. This book was like a history lesson, a news report, and a political science lecture all in one and I loved it. The way George Stephanopoulos crafted each story he told made me feel as though I was reliving these historical moments. It was fascinating to learn more about what happens in the Situation Room and the White House in general, as well as the different ways in which each President has used this resource. The difference between Nixon and Trump's chapters and every other chapter was startling and concerning. Reading this book confirmed that it is still my dream to be an intelligence analyst and have a rotation in the White House.
June 13, 2024
A damn good audiobook; surprised by how much humor it held for such a serious room.
February 25, 2025
Thanks Jeff & Shelley for the great birthday gift! It was SO interesting to read how each president used or didn't use the Sit Room. Everyone should at least read the chapters on 9/11 and the OBL raid.
July 23, 2024
Such a fun and insightful read. It recounts so many events where we obviously know how they turn out in history, but really getting into the weeds of how decisions were made was fascinating. It also gives insight to each president and how they ran their White House (or how they simply didn’t run it in the case of trump) and I gained respect for a handful of presidents I didn’t know too much about. Would definitely recommend to anyone!
April 13, 2025
Read the whole thing in one sitting
Realized I know nothing about modern history/politics
Realized I know nothing about modern history/politics
June 5, 2024
Fascinating, surprising , inspiring and appalling account of the history of the situation room since JFK. Don’t miss the audiobook, because Stephanopolous himself narrates it, and because of the interview clips.
June 17, 2024
The discussions of Kennedy-Reagan were very well written and thoughtful. I’m always on the hunt for leadership lessons in anything I read and those sections had some great details on how use of the situation room impacted a president’s leadership.
There was a gaping hole though: the Clinton years, which should be the most detailed considering the author. What was going on in the situation room during Black Hawk Down (even referenced during the chapter on Eagle Claw but never brought up again)? What about during the Rwandan genocide (or are there some self-preservation efforts going on)? All we get is a brief discussion of Serbia.
Not surprised, but slightly disappointed by how partisan the author seemed while writing about 21st century presidents. It’s a detriment to his writing; it’s not bad, but the biased treatment of Bush, Obama and Trump due to party affiliation makes it difficult to believe everything Stephanopoulos says in the last third of the book.
There was a gaping hole though: the Clinton years, which should be the most detailed considering the author. What was going on in the situation room during Black Hawk Down (even referenced during the chapter on Eagle Claw but never brought up again)? What about during the Rwandan genocide (or are there some self-preservation efforts going on)? All we get is a brief discussion of Serbia.
Not surprised, but slightly disappointed by how partisan the author seemed while writing about 21st century presidents. It’s a detriment to his writing; it’s not bad, but the biased treatment of Bush, Obama and Trump due to party affiliation makes it difficult to believe everything Stephanopoulos says in the last third of the book.
July 8, 2024
I read this book because a relative asked me to do so. The bias from this journalist was so evident I finished the book literally grieved. The hypocrisy of the same man who helped lead a somewhat vicious campaign against George Bush, only then to write with effusive praise about how Bush led his presidency strikes me as a work written by someone who was completely unaware of who he is or what he’s done.
Plus, every other president has some degree of balance in the presentations of both the good and bad parts of their tenures. Donald Trump, who I should add is certainly a flawed character that’s for sure, had nothing but negative. Big shock coming from this author.
I certainly don’t want adulation for any president, but shouldn’t a man of this author’s stature do better than what he produced?
And of course, the end of the text was basically a personal journey. It’s not about you George.
Plus, every other president has some degree of balance in the presentations of both the good and bad parts of their tenures. Donald Trump, who I should add is certainly a flawed character that’s for sure, had nothing but negative. Big shock coming from this author.
I certainly don’t want adulation for any president, but shouldn’t a man of this author’s stature do better than what he produced?
And of course, the end of the text was basically a personal journey. It’s not about you George.
June 29, 2024
I was surprised how much I enjoyed this book by George Stephanopoulos. I figured it would be another "history" book by a newsperson that was written just to make money off of the author's name. However, I found the focus on the "situation room" - but more importantly the focus on the leadership and decision making styles of U.S. Presidents from JFK to Biden - to be really interesting. The look at the nameless figures who staff and maintain the technology and information from the situation room was also great to read about. Happy to have read this.
October 11, 2024
Written Review
If you're like me and have a deep interest in the U.S. presidency, politics, and law, George Stephanopoulos' The Situation Room will grab your attention right from the start. As someone who’s spent years both working within and reporting on politics, Stephanopoulos takes us behind the scenes in a way that feels refreshingly honest and well-researched. The book reads like a conversation with someone who's been there, witnessed the decisions, and understands the stakes.
What really stood out to me is just how thoroughly researched and fact-checked this book felt. In an age where political writing can sometimes feel rushed or speculative, The Situation Room takes the time to dig into the details. It’s clear that Stephanopoulos isn't just sharing his opinions—he’s drawing on firsthand experiences and careful reporting to give readers a true picture of what goes on in the corridors of power.
Inside the White House: The Decisions That Shape a Nation
One of the best parts of the book is how it dives into the decision-making process at the highest levels of government. Stephanopoulos gives readers a front-row seat to major events, from policy debates to national crises, showing the human element behind the political machine. One memorable anecdote was from the night in 1993 when President Clinton’s team was hunkered down over the healthcare reform bill. The tension in the room was palpable—these weren’t just abstract policy decisions. People’s lives, careers, and futures were on the line, and you could feel that pressure in the way Stephanopoulos describes it.
What I found fascinating is how Stephanopoulos captures the complexity of these moments. The White House isn’t some monolithic entity; it’s a group of people all with their own ideas, fears, and hopes, trying to solve incredibly difficult problems. Whether it was foreign policy decisions or domestic concerns, The Situation Room paints a vivid picture of how policies get hashed out, often with no perfect solution.
Real-Time Crisis Management
One of the strongest sections of the book is Stephanopoulos' account of how the White House responded to crises. His writing on the events of 9/11 and the early discussions on the Iraq war is particularly gripping. He pulls back the curtain on the rapid, high-stakes decision-making that comes with moments of national emergency. Reading his take on those tense days, you can really sense the weight of the decisions on the people involved.
The way Stephanopoulos writes about these crises shows that, even in the most chaotic moments, there’s an incredible amount of thought and strategy involved. Leaders are working with limited information and time, but the choices they make have long-lasting consequences. He doesn’t romanticize the process but gives an honest look at how messy and difficult it can be.
For example, in his recounting of the Balkan crisis, Stephanopoulos shows how decisions about military intervention were shaped not just by strategy but by human considerations—what’s morally right versus what’s politically possible. His perspective as someone who was in the room gives readers a rare, real-time look at how these debates unfold.
Leadership, Politics, and Law: Lessons Learned
One of the things I appreciated most was Stephanopoulos' reflection on leadership. It’s clear that working closely with President Clinton shaped his understanding of what it takes to lead a country. He shares several stories about his conversations with Clinton, where they discussed the challenges of governing and how to balance competing interests. Clinton's emphasis on empathy—understanding the American people's needs even in the face of political opposition—is a theme that Stephanopoulos returns to throughout the book.
Stephanopoulos also digs into the legal and political aspects of decision-making. For those of us interested in how law intersects with politics, The Situation Room is full of moments where legal questions play a key role in shaping political outcomes. Whether it's the constitutionality of certain actions or how legal constraints affect policy choices, Stephanopoulos shows that law and politics are deeply intertwined, especially in the White House.
A Personal Reflection
Beyond the politics, what really made the book resonate for me was the way Stephanopoulos talks about his personal journey. He doesn’t shy away from sharing his own doubts and struggles, which adds an authentic layer to the book. He talks candidly about how the stress of political life affected him, especially as someone who was young and ambitious in such a high-stakes environment. The pressures of the job and the toll it took on his personal life are laid bare, giving readers a sense of the real cost of working at that level.
There’s a particular moment where he talks about the difficulty of balancing his demanding career with his family life. This struck a chord with me because it shows how, even at the highest levels of power, people are still dealing with the same work-life balance issues that we all face. It’s these personal reflections that make The Situation Room more than just a political book—it’s a human story.
Well-Written and Well-Researched
One thing that makes The Situation Room stand out is how well-written it is. Stephanopoulos knows how to tell a story, and he does it in a way that’s easy to follow while still being incredibly informative. Even when discussing complex political issues or legal matters, he keeps the reader engaged. The book also feels meticulously researched, with every event backed up by solid facts and detailed accounts.
In an era where it can be hard to trust what you’re reading, The Situation Room feels like a breath of fresh air. You get the sense that Stephanopoulos is giving you the real story, based on his years of experience both inside and outside of the White House.
Final Thoughts
If you have any interest in the U.S. presidency, politics, or law, The Situation Room is a must-read. George Stephanopoulos brings a unique perspective as someone who’s been at the center of major political decisions and crises. He shares his experiences with clarity, insight, and just the right amount of personal reflection to keep things relatable.
This book isn’t just for political junkies; it’s for anyone who wants to better understand how the government works and how the decisions made in Washington affect all of us. It’s an engaging, well-researched account of the realities of political life, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a deeper understanding of U.S. politics and leadership.
If you're like me and have a deep interest in the U.S. presidency, politics, and law, George Stephanopoulos' The Situation Room will grab your attention right from the start. As someone who’s spent years both working within and reporting on politics, Stephanopoulos takes us behind the scenes in a way that feels refreshingly honest and well-researched. The book reads like a conversation with someone who's been there, witnessed the decisions, and understands the stakes.
What really stood out to me is just how thoroughly researched and fact-checked this book felt. In an age where political writing can sometimes feel rushed or speculative, The Situation Room takes the time to dig into the details. It’s clear that Stephanopoulos isn't just sharing his opinions—he’s drawing on firsthand experiences and careful reporting to give readers a true picture of what goes on in the corridors of power.
Inside the White House: The Decisions That Shape a Nation
One of the best parts of the book is how it dives into the decision-making process at the highest levels of government. Stephanopoulos gives readers a front-row seat to major events, from policy debates to national crises, showing the human element behind the political machine. One memorable anecdote was from the night in 1993 when President Clinton’s team was hunkered down over the healthcare reform bill. The tension in the room was palpable—these weren’t just abstract policy decisions. People’s lives, careers, and futures were on the line, and you could feel that pressure in the way Stephanopoulos describes it.
What I found fascinating is how Stephanopoulos captures the complexity of these moments. The White House isn’t some monolithic entity; it’s a group of people all with their own ideas, fears, and hopes, trying to solve incredibly difficult problems. Whether it was foreign policy decisions or domestic concerns, The Situation Room paints a vivid picture of how policies get hashed out, often with no perfect solution.
Real-Time Crisis Management
One of the strongest sections of the book is Stephanopoulos' account of how the White House responded to crises. His writing on the events of 9/11 and the early discussions on the Iraq war is particularly gripping. He pulls back the curtain on the rapid, high-stakes decision-making that comes with moments of national emergency. Reading his take on those tense days, you can really sense the weight of the decisions on the people involved.
The way Stephanopoulos writes about these crises shows that, even in the most chaotic moments, there’s an incredible amount of thought and strategy involved. Leaders are working with limited information and time, but the choices they make have long-lasting consequences. He doesn’t romanticize the process but gives an honest look at how messy and difficult it can be.
For example, in his recounting of the Balkan crisis, Stephanopoulos shows how decisions about military intervention were shaped not just by strategy but by human considerations—what’s morally right versus what’s politically possible. His perspective as someone who was in the room gives readers a rare, real-time look at how these debates unfold.
Leadership, Politics, and Law: Lessons Learned
One of the things I appreciated most was Stephanopoulos' reflection on leadership. It’s clear that working closely with President Clinton shaped his understanding of what it takes to lead a country. He shares several stories about his conversations with Clinton, where they discussed the challenges of governing and how to balance competing interests. Clinton's emphasis on empathy—understanding the American people's needs even in the face of political opposition—is a theme that Stephanopoulos returns to throughout the book.
Stephanopoulos also digs into the legal and political aspects of decision-making. For those of us interested in how law intersects with politics, The Situation Room is full of moments where legal questions play a key role in shaping political outcomes. Whether it's the constitutionality of certain actions or how legal constraints affect policy choices, Stephanopoulos shows that law and politics are deeply intertwined, especially in the White House.
A Personal Reflection
Beyond the politics, what really made the book resonate for me was the way Stephanopoulos talks about his personal journey. He doesn’t shy away from sharing his own doubts and struggles, which adds an authentic layer to the book. He talks candidly about how the stress of political life affected him, especially as someone who was young and ambitious in such a high-stakes environment. The pressures of the job and the toll it took on his personal life are laid bare, giving readers a sense of the real cost of working at that level.
There’s a particular moment where he talks about the difficulty of balancing his demanding career with his family life. This struck a chord with me because it shows how, even at the highest levels of power, people are still dealing with the same work-life balance issues that we all face. It’s these personal reflections that make The Situation Room more than just a political book—it’s a human story.
Well-Written and Well-Researched
One thing that makes The Situation Room stand out is how well-written it is. Stephanopoulos knows how to tell a story, and he does it in a way that’s easy to follow while still being incredibly informative. Even when discussing complex political issues or legal matters, he keeps the reader engaged. The book also feels meticulously researched, with every event backed up by solid facts and detailed accounts.
In an era where it can be hard to trust what you’re reading, The Situation Room feels like a breath of fresh air. You get the sense that Stephanopoulos is giving you the real story, based on his years of experience both inside and outside of the White House.
Final Thoughts
If you have any interest in the U.S. presidency, politics, or law, The Situation Room is a must-read. George Stephanopoulos brings a unique perspective as someone who’s been at the center of major political decisions and crises. He shares his experiences with clarity, insight, and just the right amount of personal reflection to keep things relatable.
This book isn’t just for political junkies; it’s for anyone who wants to better understand how the government works and how the decisions made in Washington affect all of us. It’s an engaging, well-researched account of the realities of political life, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a deeper understanding of U.S. politics and leadership.
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November 7, 2025“The ghosts of history—from LBJ’s micromanaging to Nixon’s absence, to the mad scrambling after Reagan was shot to the chaos of the Trump administration—hover over the Situation Room.”
Created under President John F. Kennedy in 1961, the Situation Room was designed to serve as the Executive Branch’s nerve center for communication, crisis management, and incident response. After the disastrous communication failures of the Bay of Pigs invasion, the White House recognized the need for a dedicated, round-the-clock hub to handle sensitive intelligence and real-time information.
In this book, Stephanopoulos chronicles six decades and twelve presidencies’ worth of tense, high-stakes moments inside the Sit Room. Many Americans likely remember the iconic photograph of President Obama and his team during the Bin Laden raid in 2011. Fewer have probably considered what unfolded inside that same room on September 11, 2001. Through first-hand interviews with analysts, desk officers, and national security staff, Stephanopoulos brings readers into the room during these defining moments.
The events he covers are really fascinating, from the Kennedy assassination; the Vietnam and Cold Wars; the Iran hostage crisis and Operation Eagle Claw; the Iran-Contra affair; the 9/11 attacks; and even the events of January 6th, among others.
Stephanopoulos does great service to the men and women who were the beating heart of the Situation Room. Their stories, especially in the audiobook where many speak in their own voices, offer candid, invaluable insight into the successes and failures of the administrations and National Security Councils they supported.
Definitely recommend this to anyone interested in modern U.S. history
Created under President John F. Kennedy in 1961, the Situation Room was designed to serve as the Executive Branch’s nerve center for communication, crisis management, and incident response. After the disastrous communication failures of the Bay of Pigs invasion, the White House recognized the need for a dedicated, round-the-clock hub to handle sensitive intelligence and real-time information.
In this book, Stephanopoulos chronicles six decades and twelve presidencies’ worth of tense, high-stakes moments inside the Sit Room. Many Americans likely remember the iconic photograph of President Obama and his team during the Bin Laden raid in 2011. Fewer have probably considered what unfolded inside that same room on September 11, 2001. Through first-hand interviews with analysts, desk officers, and national security staff, Stephanopoulos brings readers into the room during these defining moments.
The events he covers are really fascinating, from the Kennedy assassination; the Vietnam and Cold Wars; the Iran hostage crisis and Operation Eagle Claw; the Iran-Contra affair; the 9/11 attacks; and even the events of January 6th, among others.
Stephanopoulos does great service to the men and women who were the beating heart of the Situation Room. Their stories, especially in the audiobook where many speak in their own voices, offer candid, invaluable insight into the successes and failures of the administrations and National Security Councils they supported.
Definitely recommend this to anyone interested in modern U.S. history
June 20, 2025
We are so used to getting our news from major headlines, but most of the times we have no idea what actually leads to these decisions and who makes them. The Situation Room covers over seven decades of American crises, bringing light to behind-the-scenes details and private conversations in a room that has been vital for presidents since the establishment of it by JFK.
Stepanopoulous’ synthesis of direct quotes, photographs and commentary fully immersed me into each of these historical moments. From the Cuban Missile Crisis and Kennedy Assassination to 9/11 and the hunt for Bin Laden, each of the chapters provides insights into how the administrations handled crises and relied on the Situation Room. It was inspiring to read about the nonpartisan dedication of those who worked there, often times putting their life at risk to maintain order and provide communication.
One of my biggest takeaways was realizing just how far removed we are from what happens in the Situation Room. We can only hope that we elect the right leaders that use the lessons from the past and foresight for the future to guide the decisions that shape all of our lives.
Stepanopoulous’ synthesis of direct quotes, photographs and commentary fully immersed me into each of these historical moments. From the Cuban Missile Crisis and Kennedy Assassination to 9/11 and the hunt for Bin Laden, each of the chapters provides insights into how the administrations handled crises and relied on the Situation Room. It was inspiring to read about the nonpartisan dedication of those who worked there, often times putting their life at risk to maintain order and provide communication.
One of my biggest takeaways was realizing just how far removed we are from what happens in the Situation Room. We can only hope that we elect the right leaders that use the lessons from the past and foresight for the future to guide the decisions that shape all of our lives.
December 1, 2024
This might be my best book of 2024! A compelling and fascinating read of presidents Kennedy through Biden, the major crises they faced, and how they leveraged the government institutions and processes that are so very important to our nation’s national security processes. An ode to those who serve in silence, this is a must read for those in the government service and for those who want to know a bit more about it.
I personally preferred the audio version—which is telling since I’m not usually an audio book fan—because many of the names in the book voiced their own parts, making it feel more like a conversation than a straight audio book by one narrator.
I personally preferred the audio version—which is telling since I’m not usually an audio book fan—because many of the names in the book voiced their own parts, making it feel more like a conversation than a straight audio book by one narrator.
February 2, 2025
Fascinating listen. I loved that George Stephanopoulos read it himself. The older parts were the most interesting to me because they seem historical and like we came out on the good side of things in the end. The more modern parts – within the last 8 years – were more anxiety-inducing than interesting. Those years feel/are present tense, emphasis on TENSE. This book was published in May of 2024; I wonder if GS would change anything about how he wrote the book and what he revealed, knowing how 2024 was going to play out. I hope not.
October 11, 2025
4.5⭐️ entirely because of the audio! A bit of a niche read, but I LOVED that the audio included interviews with subjects or historical tape recordings. Hearing their real voices made this book feel like I was sitting in to a radio show or docu series - so enjoyable.
I also appreciated questioning our own decision making, and our relationships to those who know more than us, or what integrity means. A fun, atypical read.
I also appreciated questioning our own decision making, and our relationships to those who know more than us, or what integrity means. A fun, atypical read.
November 16, 2024
If you’d like to know how each President handled the crises that occurred during their tenure, by the people who worked there, this book is for you. It gives you a definitive picture of each president.
This is a bipartisan look at the Situation Room and the events that shaped each president’s term. It is a good read - or audiobook, read by Stephanopoulos himself. I read through chapter 8 and listened to the remainder. I highly recommend.
This is a bipartisan look at the Situation Room and the events that shaped each president’s term. It is a good read - or audiobook, read by Stephanopoulos himself. I read through chapter 8 and listened to the remainder. I highly recommend.
July 14, 2025
BOOK REVIEW – The Situation Room: The Inside Story of Presidents in Crisis, by George Stephanopoulos and Lisa Dickey (06.15.24)
This is an electrifying, deeply insightful exploration of how U.S. presidents have confronted some of the most perilous moments in modern history. Drawing on declassified material, insider interviews, and decades of personal experience, the authors deliver a riveting and authoritative look at the real-time decision-making that has defined presidencies.
The book shines in its ability to humanize the most powerful office in the world, offering a rare behind-the-scenes view of the basement bunker where presidents grapple with the gravest threats to national and global security. Stephanopoulos describes some of the most dramatic episodes—from nuclear brinkmanship to terrorist threats to domestic insurrection—revealing how presidential temperament, values, and judgment play out when there’s no margin for error.
Some presidents emerge from the book as truly extraordinary under pressure. John F. Kennedy, for his cool-headed navigation of the Cuban Missile Crisis. Despite intense pressure from military advisors pushing for air strikes, Kennedy insisted on a naval blockade and a diplomatic solution, which ultimately defused the nuclear standoff. Kennedy did something profoundly difficult, he paused. In a room full of generals ready to strike, he chose to wait, to listen, to think.”
Obama also stands out for his calm and disciplined leadership during the raid on Osama bin Laden’s compound. The narrative recounts the hushed tension inside the Situation Room as the SEAL team carried out the mission. Obama’s willingness to make the call, despite real doubts about the intelligence. demonstrates a rare blend of intellectual rigor and moral responsibility. Obama didn’t just approve the mission; he absorbed its weight.
George W. Bush, who eventually gained respect for his post-9/11 leadership, is portrayed as initially overwhelmed in the early hours of the attacks. The Situation Room was virtually bypassed as key figures tried to locate the president and secure communication. The chaos of that moment underscores how vital it is to have steady, immediate leadership in the eye of the storm.
In contrast, Stephanopoulos treatment of moments when presidents failed the test of crisis leadership is enlightening. One of the most haunting depictions in the book is that of Richard Nixon during the Watergate scandal and the final days of his presidency. Rather than confront the situation head-on, Nixon became increasingly paranoid, disengaged, and, according to multiple sources, frequently intoxicated. As the Watergate investigation closed in, Nixon was reportedly found weeping, pacing the floor, and talking to portraits on the wall. Aides and military leaders worried about his emotional stability. “The Situation Room was still functioning—but the man at the top wasn’t. While the rest of Washington braced for constitutional crisis, Nixon vanished into isolation and bourbon.” This alarming disconnect prompted then–Defense Secretary James Schlesinger to instruct military officials not to act on any nuclear launch order from Nixon unless cleared through him. It was an extraordinary break in the chain of command, driven by fears that the president was no longer mentally or emotionally capable of sound judgment.
Similarly, Donald Trump’s behavior during the January 6th Capitol riot is portrayed as dangerously erratic. While rioters stormed Congress, Trump remained largely detached, watching events unfold on television and failing to act swiftly. Stephanopoulos describes a Situation Room adrift, as military and national security leaders took charge in the vacuum. “It was a constitutional crisis, not just outside, but inside the White House. And the silence from the president was deafening.”
The narrative structure. dividing key crises by era and president, add—makes for compulsive reading. Whether it's Lyndon Johnson watching Vietnam spiral out of control, or Ronald Reagan managing Cold War tensions, each chapter draws out the character of the person behind the podium. The Situation Room is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand what true leadership looks like—and what it doesn't—when the stakes are nothing less than the future of the country. The book is not only an extraordinary history, but it reveals not just moments of history, but the character of the people who made it.
Quotes:
John F. Kennedy (during the Cuban Missile Crisis):
“Even if we get lucky this time, how long can our luck hold? One day, some maniac will push the button—and we’ll all be the ashes of history. We have to find another way.”
Barack Obama (before the Bin Laden raid):
“If we’re wrong, I’ll take the hit. But if we’re right, we bring justice to thousands. I didn’t come here to play it safe.”
George H.W. Bush (during the Gulf War):
“This isn’t just about oil or borders. This is about what kind of world we hand to the next generation. A world where aggression goes unchecked—or one where freedom has a fighting chance.”
This is an electrifying, deeply insightful exploration of how U.S. presidents have confronted some of the most perilous moments in modern history. Drawing on declassified material, insider interviews, and decades of personal experience, the authors deliver a riveting and authoritative look at the real-time decision-making that has defined presidencies.
The book shines in its ability to humanize the most powerful office in the world, offering a rare behind-the-scenes view of the basement bunker where presidents grapple with the gravest threats to national and global security. Stephanopoulos describes some of the most dramatic episodes—from nuclear brinkmanship to terrorist threats to domestic insurrection—revealing how presidential temperament, values, and judgment play out when there’s no margin for error.
Some presidents emerge from the book as truly extraordinary under pressure. John F. Kennedy, for his cool-headed navigation of the Cuban Missile Crisis. Despite intense pressure from military advisors pushing for air strikes, Kennedy insisted on a naval blockade and a diplomatic solution, which ultimately defused the nuclear standoff. Kennedy did something profoundly difficult, he paused. In a room full of generals ready to strike, he chose to wait, to listen, to think.”
Obama also stands out for his calm and disciplined leadership during the raid on Osama bin Laden’s compound. The narrative recounts the hushed tension inside the Situation Room as the SEAL team carried out the mission. Obama’s willingness to make the call, despite real doubts about the intelligence. demonstrates a rare blend of intellectual rigor and moral responsibility. Obama didn’t just approve the mission; he absorbed its weight.
George W. Bush, who eventually gained respect for his post-9/11 leadership, is portrayed as initially overwhelmed in the early hours of the attacks. The Situation Room was virtually bypassed as key figures tried to locate the president and secure communication. The chaos of that moment underscores how vital it is to have steady, immediate leadership in the eye of the storm.
In contrast, Stephanopoulos treatment of moments when presidents failed the test of crisis leadership is enlightening. One of the most haunting depictions in the book is that of Richard Nixon during the Watergate scandal and the final days of his presidency. Rather than confront the situation head-on, Nixon became increasingly paranoid, disengaged, and, according to multiple sources, frequently intoxicated. As the Watergate investigation closed in, Nixon was reportedly found weeping, pacing the floor, and talking to portraits on the wall. Aides and military leaders worried about his emotional stability. “The Situation Room was still functioning—but the man at the top wasn’t. While the rest of Washington braced for constitutional crisis, Nixon vanished into isolation and bourbon.” This alarming disconnect prompted then–Defense Secretary James Schlesinger to instruct military officials not to act on any nuclear launch order from Nixon unless cleared through him. It was an extraordinary break in the chain of command, driven by fears that the president was no longer mentally or emotionally capable of sound judgment.
Similarly, Donald Trump’s behavior during the January 6th Capitol riot is portrayed as dangerously erratic. While rioters stormed Congress, Trump remained largely detached, watching events unfold on television and failing to act swiftly. Stephanopoulos describes a Situation Room adrift, as military and national security leaders took charge in the vacuum. “It was a constitutional crisis, not just outside, but inside the White House. And the silence from the president was deafening.”
The narrative structure. dividing key crises by era and president, add—makes for compulsive reading. Whether it's Lyndon Johnson watching Vietnam spiral out of control, or Ronald Reagan managing Cold War tensions, each chapter draws out the character of the person behind the podium. The Situation Room is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand what true leadership looks like—and what it doesn't—when the stakes are nothing less than the future of the country. The book is not only an extraordinary history, but it reveals not just moments of history, but the character of the people who made it.
Quotes:
John F. Kennedy (during the Cuban Missile Crisis):
“Even if we get lucky this time, how long can our luck hold? One day, some maniac will push the button—and we’ll all be the ashes of history. We have to find another way.”
Barack Obama (before the Bin Laden raid):
“If we’re wrong, I’ll take the hit. But if we’re right, we bring justice to thousands. I didn’t come here to play it safe.”
George H.W. Bush (during the Gulf War):
“This isn’t just about oil or borders. This is about what kind of world we hand to the next generation. A world where aggression goes unchecked—or one where freedom has a fighting chance.”
August 12, 2024
Although these are fairly well-known stories, when we throw in the Situation Room stuff, we get everything we need: action, intrigue, and political commentary. That's a 4.25 for me!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,326 reviews