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How to Test Negative for Stupid: And Why Washington Never Will
One of the most distinctive and funny politicians, Senator John Kennedy (the one from Louisiana)—hailed by Politico as “America’s most quotable Senator”—offers his perceptive (and hilarious) takes on the ridiculousness of political life in this scathingly witty takedown of Washington and its elite denizens.
How to Test Negative for Stupid is the Louisianan’s tongue-in-check observations of political life in America’s capital, punctuated by his thoughts on various issues and humorous stories about life in Louisiana politics and inside the Senate.
The Oxford-educated, good-ole-boy-tongued Senator is folksy, and commonsensical, known for witticisms such
“I believe that our country was founded by geniuses, but it’s being run by idiots.”“Always follow your heart . . . but take your brains with you.”“The people the President put in charge are not qualified to manage a food truck.”“Common sense is illegal in Washington DC. I know. I’ve seen it first-hand.”“I believe that we are going to have to get some new conspiracy theories. All the old ones turned out to be true.”“Facebook is a great company, but it's no longer a company; it's a country. That's how powerful it is. And its behavior lately has kind of been getting into the foothills of creepy.” And one of his most “If you don’t know what a border is . . . you’ve tested positive for stupid.”Fans will find all this and more inside this charming send up of all of Washington’s do-nothing, performative silliness.
How to Test Negative for Stupid is the Louisianan’s tongue-in-check observations of political life in America’s capital, punctuated by his thoughts on various issues and humorous stories about life in Louisiana politics and inside the Senate.
The Oxford-educated, good-ole-boy-tongued Senator is folksy, and commonsensical, known for witticisms such
“I believe that our country was founded by geniuses, but it’s being run by idiots.”“Always follow your heart . . . but take your brains with you.”“The people the President put in charge are not qualified to manage a food truck.”“Common sense is illegal in Washington DC. I know. I’ve seen it first-hand.”“I believe that we are going to have to get some new conspiracy theories. All the old ones turned out to be true.”“Facebook is a great company, but it's no longer a company; it's a country. That's how powerful it is. And its behavior lately has kind of been getting into the foothills of creepy.” And one of his most “If you don’t know what a border is . . . you’ve tested positive for stupid.”Fans will find all this and more inside this charming send up of all of Washington’s do-nothing, performative silliness.
- GenresNonfictionPolitics
224 pages, Hardcover
Published October 7, 2025
470 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
October 8, 2025
My thoughts
Sen. Kennedy is an outlier on the bell curve of politicians. He says what he means and means what he says. He speaks plainly and truthfully and with a heavy coating of common sense. And, in a time when everyone is uptight and triggered by the least things, he does it ith humor. I'm glad he's MY Senator!
Sen. Kennedy is an outlier on the bell curve of politicians. He says what he means and means what he says. He speaks plainly and truthfully and with a heavy coating of common sense. And, in a time when everyone is uptight and triggered by the least things, he does it ith humor. I'm glad he's MY Senator!
October 9, 2025
Well worth the read
Granted, I might be slightly biased because Sen Kennedy is one of my favorite senators, but I thoroughly enjoyed the book. There was more than one LOL moment which I’ve come to expect from him. My only complaint? The title is misleading. I expected him to tell us how to fix the stupid in Washington, although that’s probably a lost cause. But it was a great glimpse into his life and character and made me appreciate him even more. Keep up the good work, Senator.
Granted, I might be slightly biased because Sen Kennedy is one of my favorite senators, but I thoroughly enjoyed the book. There was more than one LOL moment which I’ve come to expect from him. My only complaint? The title is misleading. I expected him to tell us how to fix the stupid in Washington, although that’s probably a lost cause. But it was a great glimpse into his life and character and made me appreciate him even more. Keep up the good work, Senator.
October 14, 2025
Recommended To All Except Those Afflicted With TDS (Although The Book Is Not Focused on Trump)!
Sen. Kennedy’s book is a witty, sharply opinionated critique of Washington, D.C., bureaucracy, political culture, and what he sees as widespread incompetence (or worse) across both parties. He frames the work partly as a humorous “how-to” manual for avoiding foolishness in politics, and partly as a lament that the system will likely never truly reform itself.
He peppers the text with aphorisms, one-liners, personal anecdotes from his career in Louisiana and in the Senate, and pointed barbs aimed at figures across the political spectrum. He also uses some colorful (but not offensive) language and writes in a colloquial style, similar to his speaking style, to make his arguments more provocative and unapologetic.
If you enjoy bold political voices who don’t hold back, you’ll have plenty to like.
Sen. Kennedy’s book is a witty, sharply opinionated critique of Washington, D.C., bureaucracy, political culture, and what he sees as widespread incompetence (or worse) across both parties. He frames the work partly as a humorous “how-to” manual for avoiding foolishness in politics, and partly as a lament that the system will likely never truly reform itself.
He peppers the text with aphorisms, one-liners, personal anecdotes from his career in Louisiana and in the Senate, and pointed barbs aimed at figures across the political spectrum. He also uses some colorful (but not offensive) language and writes in a colloquial style, similar to his speaking style, to make his arguments more provocative and unapologetic.
If you enjoy bold political voices who don’t hold back, you’ll have plenty to like.
October 16, 2025
"...to a bear we all taste like chicken."
Classic John Kennedy-isms frame this book's message. I found myself smiling (and often laughing out loud) while nodding my head throughout the entire book. Mark Twain would be proud.
Classic John Kennedy-isms frame this book's message. I found myself smiling (and often laughing out loud) while nodding my head throughout the entire book. Mark Twain would be proud.
October 8, 2025
Great read! Informative, interesting and fun!
John Kennedy knows how to put words together to make the book funny and entertaining! He has high standards and obviously doesn’t suffer fools. Proud to have him in the Senate. Wish he would run for President!
John Kennedy knows how to put words together to make the book funny and entertaining! He has high standards and obviously doesn’t suffer fools. Proud to have him in the Senate. Wish he would run for President!
October 21, 2025
I listened to this book and the author is the narrator. It is fantastic in his voice!
October 12, 2025
Best, funniest and honest, down to earth Senator in Congress!
This book is exactly who and what Senator Kennedy is!
I have watched and listened to him as much as I can. He is very intelligent, witty, honest , loyal and so down to earth . It is so refreshing to read and hear his opinions with a little country humor along with his know. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, I live in NJ however, if allowed , I would vote for him for the next 20 or more years. This is who we need to keep our great country the America it was and hopefully will continue to be. Greatest country on earth. Thanks for being you, Mr. Kennedy never change!
This book is exactly who and what Senator Kennedy is!
I have watched and listened to him as much as I can. He is very intelligent, witty, honest , loyal and so down to earth . It is so refreshing to read and hear his opinions with a little country humor along with his know. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, I live in NJ however, if allowed , I would vote for him for the next 20 or more years. This is who we need to keep our great country the America it was and hopefully will continue to be. Greatest country on earth. Thanks for being you, Mr. Kennedy never change!
October 13, 2025
Anytime I know that Senator John Kennedy is going to be on Fox News I make sure to watch. I read his book in a little over two days. I loved it!! Just about very page had me laughing out loud. Unfortunately it was either laugh or get angry because the case he made was spot on. He presented a definite case for term limits. Our representatives should serve us with diligence and integrity, not self serving and becoming wealthy because of corruption and stupidity. He made an intelligent case against the woke culture of wanting to take apart our country due to past wrongs committed and the failure to recognize that the wrongs were eventually corrected and are still being corrected and the past should be a lesson learned in an effort to not repeating. This country has had many troubles but as a whole has become a country to be proud of because of being able to correct and overcome them.
October 17, 2025
HOW TO TEST NEGATIVE FOR STUPID:
And Why Washington Never Will
JOHN KENNEDY, USA Senator
Review by Author Roy Murry
"It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness…” Charles Dickens’ A Tale of Two Cities.
Mr. Kennedy’s dissertation on his journey to and in the United States’ Capital is written in easy-to-read prose with a dab of his classic Louisiana humor.
His explanation of how Washington works and the foolishness of some who control the system has led to the worst of times. Hopefully, common-sense policies will lead to the best of times.
Senator Kennedy’s honest opinions drive home what every American can understand and should be worried about. He contends that an age of wisdom can help keep the USA afloat for another 250 years.
This non-fiction is a personal attempt to involve citizens in their country’s destiny. It’s a well-written journey, and a must-read for those with an inquisitive mind.
And Why Washington Never Will
JOHN KENNEDY, USA Senator
Review by Author Roy Murry
"It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness…” Charles Dickens’ A Tale of Two Cities.
Mr. Kennedy’s dissertation on his journey to and in the United States’ Capital is written in easy-to-read prose with a dab of his classic Louisiana humor.
His explanation of how Washington works and the foolishness of some who control the system has led to the worst of times. Hopefully, common-sense policies will lead to the best of times.
Senator Kennedy’s honest opinions drive home what every American can understand and should be worried about. He contends that an age of wisdom can help keep the USA afloat for another 250 years.
This non-fiction is a personal attempt to involve citizens in their country’s destiny. It’s a well-written journey, and a must-read for those with an inquisitive mind.
October 20, 2025
what a great read
This was beyond a doubt one of the best books I have ever read, John Kennedy does it in a way that only he could do. He is such a great senator and I enjoyed it if there was a way I could give it ten stars I would.
John Kennedy is a true American.
This was beyond a doubt one of the best books I have ever read, John Kennedy does it in a way that only he could do. He is such a great senator and I enjoyed it if there was a way I could give it ten stars I would.
John Kennedy is a true American.
October 21, 2025
John Kennedy from Louisiana is one of a kind! I look forward to his comments on TV. I just wish there were more senators like him. He is honest, smart and straightforward. I learned a lot about Kennedy’s life, what he considers his roll as senator, but also about how Washington “doesn’t” work! I highly recommend this book! If you are not familiar with Senator John Kennedy, here are a few of his gems!
“I believe that our country was founded by geniuses, but it’s being run by idiots.”
“Always follow your heart . . . but take your brain with you.”
“I have the right to remain silent but not the ability.”
“Common sense is illegal in Washington, D.C., I know. I’ve seen it firsthand.”
“I believe that we are going to have to get some new conspiracy theories. All the old ones turned out to be true.”
“I believe that our country was founded by geniuses, but it’s being run by idiots.”
“Always follow your heart . . . but take your brain with you.”
“I have the right to remain silent but not the ability.”
“Common sense is illegal in Washington, D.C., I know. I’ve seen it firsthand.”
“I believe that we are going to have to get some new conspiracy theories. All the old ones turned out to be true.”
October 14, 2025
Plain Truth from a Common Sense Man
A great read from someone I have come to appreciate and like. I hadn't heard too much about him until some Fox News personalities began quoting him or having him on their shows.
I also didn't know his background, but I think I understand him better from reading this book. Just someone who asks questions and tries to get answers. He is a person who values common sense because it is so uncommon in today's society. I highly recommend this book to others who value middle of the road outlook on problems and solutions in our government. Jack Durrett
A great read from someone I have come to appreciate and like. I hadn't heard too much about him until some Fox News personalities began quoting him or having him on their shows.
I also didn't know his background, but I think I understand him better from reading this book. Just someone who asks questions and tries to get answers. He is a person who values common sense because it is so uncommon in today's society. I highly recommend this book to others who value middle of the road outlook on problems and solutions in our government. Jack Durrett
October 15, 2025
I wish John Kennedy was my Senator
This book is fantastic. Not only is Senetor John Kennedy real and candid, it has been my experience that the more educated, the more ignorant! Books are amazing but too many often make people lose their grip on the reality that the rest of us live everyday. John Kennedy has not only maintained his grip on the reality most Americans live everyday, he does it with grit and humor. I laughed through the entire book and I wish the people of CA had a desire to have leadership with half of his integrity! Thank you Senator Kennedy. I enjoyed every page! God bless!
This book is fantastic. Not only is Senetor John Kennedy real and candid, it has been my experience that the more educated, the more ignorant! Books are amazing but too many often make people lose their grip on the reality that the rest of us live everyday. John Kennedy has not only maintained his grip on the reality most Americans live everyday, he does it with grit and humor. I laughed through the entire book and I wish the people of CA had a desire to have leadership with half of his integrity! Thank you Senator Kennedy. I enjoyed every page! God bless!
October 17, 2025
John Kennedy is marvelous, and well known for his Kennedy-isms, aka his old-fashioned southern slang he often uses in congress/during hearings…
I must admit he had some marvelous one-liners, that make me want to reread the entire book just to bookmark and highlight them so I can use them in the future.
Kennedy’s grasp on such a wide array of topics is truly extraordinary, he has a strong set of morals that a lot of his opinions stem from. Everything he said had reasoning and evidence behind it, and the subtle (and not so subtle) digs at many of the left-leaning people in congress were marvelous.
Truly fabulous read! Highly highly recommend to anyone and everyone.
I must admit he had some marvelous one-liners, that make me want to reread the entire book just to bookmark and highlight them so I can use them in the future.
Kennedy’s grasp on such a wide array of topics is truly extraordinary, he has a strong set of morals that a lot of his opinions stem from. Everything he said had reasoning and evidence behind it, and the subtle (and not so subtle) digs at many of the left-leaning people in congress were marvelous.
Truly fabulous read! Highly highly recommend to anyone and everyone.
October 21, 2025
Wit & Wisdom Worth Your While
While I read a lot since retirement, I have seldom come across a book that checks all the boxes of being thought provoking, inspiring, hilarious, entertaining, educational & plain spoken. Yup. Everyone of those. Unfortunately, I fear there won't he many book sales to Democrats. Their loss really & more proof the Progressive mindset is in an irreversible downward trajectory.
Such wit & wisdom from the lovably irascible Senator is a must read. One of his views on qualifications of school principals is that they should be a cross of Socrates & Dirty Harry. I am hopeful to see such a transformation during his time in office.
While I read a lot since retirement, I have seldom come across a book that checks all the boxes of being thought provoking, inspiring, hilarious, entertaining, educational & plain spoken. Yup. Everyone of those. Unfortunately, I fear there won't he many book sales to Democrats. Their loss really & more proof the Progressive mindset is in an irreversible downward trajectory.
Such wit & wisdom from the lovably irascible Senator is a must read. One of his views on qualifications of school principals is that they should be a cross of Socrates & Dirty Harry. I am hopeful to see such a transformation during his time in office.
October 21, 2025
Great. John is my favorite elected official. His wit is so basic but hit intentionally foundation is everything I believe. All I’ve ever asked from anyone is an honest attempt at the truth. John excels at this.
I loved his portrayal of many of his other Senators. I did miss his opinion of Adam Schiff. I took that to mean it’s better to say nothing than expose his character.
The art of genius is to explain complex issues in plain language. John Kennedy excels at this. I’ve always felt if I can’t understand what a person is saying to me they either don’t know what they’re talking about or they are lieing to me.
Great read. Would love to see more. 👍
I loved his portrayal of many of his other Senators. I did miss his opinion of Adam Schiff. I took that to mean it’s better to say nothing than expose his character.
The art of genius is to explain complex issues in plain language. John Kennedy excels at this. I’ve always felt if I can’t understand what a person is saying to me they either don’t know what they’re talking about or they are lieing to me.
Great read. Would love to see more. 👍
October 14, 2025
A gem
Senator Kennedy is a special individual. No question he is an intellectual man, but he knows how to communicate to everyone clearly. His use of humor in down home every day way works with the highly educated and blue collar worker. All through the book I would say to myself this man is a Senator that thinks common sense like most Americans that love this country and hate what the left is trying to it. This review comes a educator , 33 years high school teacher and 6 years at the college level.
Senator Kennedy is a special individual. No question he is an intellectual man, but he knows how to communicate to everyone clearly. His use of humor in down home every day way works with the highly educated and blue collar worker. All through the book I would say to myself this man is a Senator that thinks common sense like most Americans that love this country and hate what the left is trying to it. This review comes a educator , 33 years high school teacher and 6 years at the college level.
October 10, 2025
Definitely worth reading!
Senator Kennedy is a serious and intelligent man with a strong Louisiana accent and demeanor, which are not mutually exclusive. He’s hilarious, says exactly what he thinks, and addresses the major issues facing our country today. Kennedy also describes his long journey as an academic and legal expert with humor and a candid assessment of his experience. This is a great read!
Senator Kennedy is a serious and intelligent man with a strong Louisiana accent and demeanor, which are not mutually exclusive. He’s hilarious, says exactly what he thinks, and addresses the major issues facing our country today. Kennedy also describes his long journey as an academic and legal expert with humor and a candid assessment of his experience. This is a great read!
October 10, 2025
One of the most informative and entertaining story’s about the senatorial life of John Kennedy. John is a lawmaker with unusually high moral standards. The book is full of John’s turn of words in most every situation. I consider him the Will Rogers of our generation. People may argue as to his speaking the truth, that is fair, give him a listen. Appropriate or not-so-much, John expresses himself in common sense.
October 15, 2025
There is not a boring chapter in this book! It is often laugh out loud funny but at the same time wise and very disturbing. This is a picture of the truth about our political class and it is not pretty. Everyone who cares about the future of our Country should read it and ray and vote wisely. I don['t read political books at all but this one is essential for anyone who wants to know the truth about Washington!!!
October 17, 2025
Excellent Read
Dear Senator Kennedy,
Thank for the best read in a long time. I felt all the feels; sadness for the people who that feel money and theft makes them good leaders, laughter in the delightful way you lead people with humor and your ability to make truth the best lifetime goal we as a people can have and use., and anger for all that America has lost with following the promises of the worst of us.
Mary D
Dear Senator Kennedy,
Thank for the best read in a long time. I felt all the feels; sadness for the people who that feel money and theft makes them good leaders, laughter in the delightful way you lead people with humor and your ability to make truth the best lifetime goal we as a people can have and use., and anger for all that America has lost with following the promises of the worst of us.
Mary D
October 18, 2025
High praise for common sense
This book is an easy read but has a powerful message. We need more humans like Senator John Kennedy. His common sense, ability to get to the heart of an issue and to lay down how to apply truth to decision making is something we all should require from our elected officials. I am so glad to have read this book at this time in our nation's history. Please can we have more men (and women) like him.
This book is an easy read but has a powerful message. We need more humans like Senator John Kennedy. His common sense, ability to get to the heart of an issue and to lay down how to apply truth to decision making is something we all should require from our elected officials. I am so glad to have read this book at this time in our nation's history. Please can we have more men (and women) like him.
October 19, 2025
what you see and hear is refreshing
If you’ve had any experience listening to Senator Kennedy you know he’s smart and marches to the beat of a different drummer. This book verifies that with humor and a scary but clearer understanding about how our government works, which is an execration of the word “works”. A must read and I hope lots of people read this book. I warn you, you’ll will laugh out loud and also say ”God save us”.
If you’ve had any experience listening to Senator Kennedy you know he’s smart and marches to the beat of a different drummer. This book verifies that with humor and a scary but clearer understanding about how our government works, which is an execration of the word “works”. A must read and I hope lots of people read this book. I warn you, you’ll will laugh out loud and also say ”God save us”.
October 19, 2025
Truth
Kennedy speaks the truth in a homespun eat. Letting me know what he thinks. Which in many instances is the same. He loves America and Louisiana. Can't be 100% . But he's not afraid to call out those who condemn American. Especially the elected politicians. Those who have come from other countries. Deported quickly as enemies of the government. Maybe I'm a little forward but elected offices is for Americans and Sharia law has no place in America
Kennedy speaks the truth in a homespun eat. Letting me know what he thinks. Which in many instances is the same. He loves America and Louisiana. Can't be 100% . But he's not afraid to call out those who condemn American. Especially the elected politicians. Those who have come from other countries. Deported quickly as enemies of the government. Maybe I'm a little forward but elected offices is for Americans and Sharia law has no place in America
October 22, 2025
I truly wish you could give anything other than full stars because this one deserves a 3.5, it was an enjoyable read but not my favorite of all time. It was a good book that was well written and had me laughing out loud at times. Senator Kennedy is extremely funny, well spoken, and I appreciated the respect with which he approached topics. I disagreed with him on a lot of things in this book but still enjoyed it and can appreciate another perspective.
October 10, 2025
Excellent, vintage Senator Kennedy
Known for his direct common sense approach to his service in the Senate, Senator Kennedy introduces himself to us with an interesting discussion of his upbringing and life history, and pulls the curtain back on serving in government. Filled with his typical descriptive southern verbiage, this is a delightful book, over too soon.
Known for his direct common sense approach to his service in the Senate, Senator Kennedy introduces himself to us with an interesting discussion of his upbringing and life history, and pulls the curtain back on serving in government. Filled with his typical descriptive southern verbiage, this is a delightful book, over too soon.
October 10, 2025
Senator Kennedy has written a concise treatise on state of things
Senator Kennedy is the Senator we all should hope our Senators and Representatives should be. This book gives his common sense assessment of politics and our country and points to the way to fix our country. He does it in his unique style and makes it easy to understand. The man is a national treasure.
Senator Kennedy is the Senator we all should hope our Senators and Representatives should be. This book gives his common sense assessment of politics and our country and points to the way to fix our country. He does it in his unique style and makes it easy to understand. The man is a national treasure.
October 10, 2025
Senator Kennedy is a super writer , and he serves our country well!! GREAT BOOK. I appreciate his
I appreciate his insights and his great sense of humor! I recommend the book to all who believe AMERICA IS GREAT.
We are not perfect and can improve in many areas,
BUY THE BOOK
A L M. PhD
I appreciate his insights and his great sense of humor! I recommend the book to all who believe AMERICA IS GREAT.
We are not perfect and can improve in many areas,
BUY THE BOOK
A L M. PhD
October 12, 2025
This book is a huge waste of time. The first half is mostly an autobiography. I couldn’t care less. Then there
S a lot of conversation and complements about other politicians. Barf. The title is truly misleading. 60% in and he doesn’t even hint at how to not be stupid. I generally like Kennedy, but this book , which was probably ghostwritten adds no value.
S a lot of conversation and complements about other politicians. Barf. The title is truly misleading. 60% in and he doesn’t even hint at how to not be stupid. I generally like Kennedy, but this book , which was probably ghostwritten adds no value.
October 13, 2025
Common sense it is!
This is a must read by all Americans! It is great to read a book that reports truth about what is happening in Washington and what this country needs! Thank you, Senator Kennedy for being so candid and projecting honesty. COMMON SENSE will help this country to succeed! Keep it going!
This is a must read by all Americans! It is great to read a book that reports truth about what is happening in Washington and what this country needs! Thank you, Senator Kennedy for being so candid and projecting honesty. COMMON SENSE will help this country to succeed! Keep it going!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews