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How to Test Negative for Stupid: And Why Washington Never Will
* Listening Length: 8 hours and 13 minutes
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 offers the Senator’s tongue-in-cheek guidebook through Washington, punctuated by his thoughts on various issues and humorous stories about life from Louisiana politics and inside the Senate.
From the mind—and mouth—of "America's Most Quotable Senator":
“Always be yourself . . . unless you suck.”
“I say this This is why the aliens won’t talk to us.”
“If you trust government, you obviously failed history class.”
“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’m not going to Bubble Wrap The water in Washington, D.C., won’t clear up until you get the pigs out of the creek.”
“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.”
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 offers the Senator’s tongue-in-cheek guidebook through Washington, punctuated by his thoughts on various issues and humorous stories about life from Louisiana politics and inside the Senate.
From the mind—and mouth—of "America's Most Quotable Senator":
“Always be yourself . . . unless you suck.”
“I say this This is why the aliens won’t talk to us.”
“If you trust government, you obviously failed history class.”
“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’m not going to Bubble Wrap The water in Washington, D.C., won’t clear up until you get the pigs out of the creek.”
“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.”
- GenresPoliticsNonfiction
9 pages, Audible Audio
Published October 7, 2025
943 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 275 reviews
November 12, 2025
What an amazing man! If you are a fan of Senator Kennedy or even if you are not, listen to this book. It is a common sense and sometimes hilarious book that presents Senator Kennedy’s outlook. He makes sense and Louisiana is fortunate in having him as their elected senator. We are all fortunate to have him fighting for truth and bringing back integrity, common sense, and pride in our country.
Kennedy gives us an often humorous view into the workings of the Senate, that is when they do work! He is dedicated to doing his job and that is working for the people of his state. He is not bound by party lines and has many friends across the aisle in the Senate, He does remark though that some who have been there long, must have had a dinosaur as a pet! There are so many witticisms that made me lol and I appreciated that Mr Kennedy tries to not hate anyone although he says that following Jesus is hard sometimes with some of the meatheads. He is a brilliant man with character and strength and as a bonus a wonderful sense of humor!
Kennedy gives us an often humorous view into the workings of the Senate, that is when they do work! He is dedicated to doing his job and that is working for the people of his state. He is not bound by party lines and has many friends across the aisle in the Senate, He does remark though that some who have been there long, must have had a dinosaur as a pet! There are so many witticisms that made me lol and I appreciated that Mr Kennedy tries to not hate anyone although he says that following Jesus is hard sometimes with some of the meatheads. He is a brilliant man with character and strength and as a bonus a wonderful sense of humor!
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 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 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 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 26, 2025
A fun read on an interesting personality in the world of politics. Even though I disagree on some of his choices in some people he supports, because actions speak louder than words. There’s some tunnel vision going on. Just being honest.
November 11, 2025
This is an excellent book for anyone interested in politics. You can almost hear his voice as you read it.
Kennedy starts out with a little background. He explains how he got to be a US Senator. He then gives you the dirt on working in the Senate since 2016.
The chapters I enjoyed most were chapter 8, in which he discusses his interactions with Biden and his staff. It is just as I suspected. Biden was a walking corpse led around by his progressive woke staff.
I also enjoyed chapter 10, in which Kennedy gives his views on a lot of the current topics facing our government. I have to say I am in agreement with him on many of these.
Fun read for conservatives.
Kennedy starts out with a little background. He explains how he got to be a US Senator. He then gives you the dirt on working in the Senate since 2016.
The chapters I enjoyed most were chapter 8, in which he discusses his interactions with Biden and his staff. It is just as I suspected. Biden was a walking corpse led around by his progressive woke staff.
I also enjoyed chapter 10, in which Kennedy gives his views on a lot of the current topics facing our government. I have to say I am in agreement with him on many of these.
Fun read for conservatives.
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 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.
November 18, 2025
One of the few politicians that I like. It is unfortunate that he accepts money from AIPAC. He devoted to much expressing distaste for David Duke and attempting to balance his disagreement with woke policies by denouncing racism.
October 21, 2025
I listened to this book and the author is the narrator. It is fantastic in his voice!
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 27, 2025
Hilarious and informative. John Kennedy kept me laughing and giggling listening to this whole book. I liked the fact that he was the one that narrated it. It made the connection much more personal. As funny as his one liners are, this book really did help to see how things can get inside the Senate.
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 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.
November 5, 2025
When active on social media and taking a greater interest in politics during the 2024 presidential election and afterward, I discovered Louisiana had a Republican U.S. Senator named John Kennedy (like the late beloved American president), with one of his first X posts saying after Trump won, "Democrats and some in the media have been running around like a 5-year-old in a Batman t-shirt, screaming that the world is coming to an end because the Trump admin is keeping its promise to stop funding harmful and wasteful government projects. Get me a barf bucket." I followed him and saw that pretty much all of his posts had this kind of wit, which I found was funnier than anything former Minnesota senator and comedian Al Franken ever said--and Kennedy was never a professional comic, which says a lot.
Since I've been reading more nonfiction and enjoying it far more than fiction nowadays, Kennedy's book How to Test Negative for Stupid: And Why Washington Never Will showed up when I was searching on Amazon, so I decided to give it a purchase.
The introduction notes how he shares his name--at least his first and last, his middle name being Neely--with JFK, how his goal is to speak the truth. He gives his background of his election to the United States Senate, among his early tasks being seeing through the lies of a so-called "expert" who gave bad knowledge and had gotten money from a company that leaked data. He earned the scorn of President Joe Biden, and gives an analogy of providing Lindsay Lohan the keys to the minibar.
In the first chapter, Kennedy notes how he lives a boring life, which somewhat parallels mine--despite my own original wit, some of which I'll acknowledge was inspired by the senator--and how he ironically says he is a better reader and learner than writer. He gives the history of the U.S. Capitol, mentions a stuffed alligator named Alphonse he keeps in his office, and mentions how the Senate chamber is usually as "empty as a timeshare salesman's heart." He notes how many politician's brains stop working when they're elected to Congress, and provides interesting tidbits like only water and milk being allowed as beverages in the senate chamber. Kennedy notes the change of rules in 1975 of filibustering happening behind the scenes, and talks about his various fellow senators, some of which dropped the F-word during personal conversations. He mentions some interesting things like telling Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders to "pay his taxes"--and he's the world's richest socialist--and tells readers to "follow your heart, but take your brain with you."
In the second chapter, Kennedy talks about his home state of Louisiana, about his parents, and mentions a story about a school acquaintance named Billy who threatened to beat him up. He worked on his father's construction crew when he was eleven and as a cashier, learning an important lesson: "Life is hard, but it's harder when you're stupid." He went to several colleges including Louisiana Tech University, Vanderbilt University, the University of Virginia School of Law, and the University of Oxford, before marrying his wife Becky.
In the third chapter, Kennedy highlights a call from Louisiana Governor Buddy Roemer, noting that his state lagged behind the rest of America economically during the Reagan years. He earned enemies while working in the governor's office, with Roemer tackling issues like campaign finance, and Kennedy ultimately running for state attorney general.
The fourth chapter focuses on Kennedy's run for Louisiana Attorney General, where he talks philosophy, mentioning Friedrich Nietzsche and C.S. Lewis among others. He notes David Duke's run for governor, and how he lost his own run in a runoff, saying that Buddy Roemer went broke after leaving office. Kennedy worked as a lawyer in New Orleans, noting that Louisiana residents were torn between the state's 6% income tax back in 1996 and Texas' 0% rate. Kennedy himself would eventually win the race as state treasurer.
The fifth chapter notes that Kennedy served as a substitute teacher as he served as state treasurer, rightfully mentioning that public schools need competition given the high investment per capita into students across the nation. He gives a suggestion for "members" to serve as substitute teachers for a year, but is somewhat vague about whether he means politicians or people who want to be teachers, but the former would definitely be good if he meant that, since politicians are of course out of touch with the educational system. He talks about a friend he nicknamed "Senator Meathead," and mentions that he originally ran for the U.S. Senate as a Democrat, losing. Hurricane Katrina would hit New Oreleans, with Kennedy mentioning that FEMA has a rule about barring pets on buses, and tells the story of a man on a rooftop who wanted to be rescued by a helicopter rather than a boat. Corruption was one of Kennedy's issues to tackle in Louisiana, and wanted legislation prohibiting public officials or immediate family members from receiving construction repair contracts using federal funds, which was rejected by then-Governor Kathleen Blanco.
The sixth chapter focuses on Kennedy's race that would ultimately lead to his election as United States Senator, where David Duke ran again but naturally had trouble given his past demons. Kennedy became friends with Donald Trump and references his first and only debate with President Joe Biden in 2024, talking as well of Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency. Kennedy had to go into a runoff in 2016 due to Louisiana's unique election rules of multiple candidates from each political party being able to run in the general election, and ended up winning in a landslide in the runoffs.
The seventh chapter focuses on Kennedy entering the Senate the following year, joining new senators from both parties such as Kamala Harris among the Democrats, noting that Trump Derangement Syndrome was alive and well back then, seeing through the fake evidence of his alleged collusion with Russia. Kennedy mentions attending a Gridiron Dinner for journalists and how they easily laughed at jokes about Republicans but not about Democrats. Then he discusses the witch-hunts by Democrats against Trump over his "perfect phone call" with Ukrainian president Volodimir Zelenskyy, and the First Step Act to reduce the sentences of nonviolent criminals in federal prisons.
The eighth chapter talks about the Biden presidency, how the former president competed in the Woke Olympics, given his bow to DEI initiatives to satisfy fringe groups and transgender extremism like advocating transitions for minors. Biden was unpopular throughout his presidency, with Kennedy ejected from the White House when asked by the president if he wanted to see the residence's movie theater. The senator notes that the "loon wing" took over the Democratic Party--and still controls it today--with Biden making numerous DEI appointments like judicial nominee Charnelle Bjelkengren, who couldn't answer questions about the various articles of the US Constitution but was confirmed by the Senate anyway. He states that in his first term, Donald Trump had pulled Matthew Petersen as an appointee given his lack of experience and inability to answer questions in a hearing. Kennedy notes in the chapter, "I don't think we need people in the federal government, in the Senate or otherwise, who will further inflame those passions by seeking retribution against their enemies."
In the ninth chapter, Kennedy notes that the Biden administration attempted to witch-hunt Trump and his supporters, with Trump back in the White House attempting to end the weaponization of the government against political enemies. Pam Bondi would become Attorney General and Kash Patel head of the FBI, with the senator stating that conservatives and leftists alike were jailed by the Department of Justice well before Biden, many conspiracy theories turned out to be true, the Trump-Russia collusion benign a hoax, and the content on Hunter Biden's laptop being kept from the public. During the Biden administration, Democrats hated the Supreme Court given decisions such as overturning Roe v. Wade and still want to "pack" it, with politicians in general not respecting the federal judiciary.
In the tenth chapter, Kennedy highlights his positions on various issues starting on immigration, with Joe Biden having let in millions unvetted during his presidency, Obama having a "catch, release, and forget" policy, and Trump reversing that. The senator rightfully disdains the media, which hasn't been subtle about its obvious bias, with leftist and rightist outlets largely being echo chambers. Crime is another issue for him, and he notes that not enforcing the law and backing the police have spiked crime. He highlights California Governor Gavin Newsom's law saying it's not theft if you steal $950 worth of goods or less, that crime hurts poor communities the worst, and that "stop and frisk" procedures from cops are necessary, though many cities like Chicago have long red tape regarding that.
He mentions China as a growing threat to America, and discusses the rise of transgender ideology under the Biden presidency, noting immutable physical differences between males and females, and how his op-ed about the topic was taken down and eviscerated. The final section discusses race, Kennedy saying America is not a racist country, having gone from learning history to lashing out at it, and how he was accused as "racist" for asking an unqualified black judicial nominee questions that had nothing to do with race. He notes the poor education achievement among blacks, rise of single-mother households, how circumstances of birth don't decide life outcomes, and that we should learn from history instead of canceling it.
In the epilogue, Kennedy says he has hope for the second Trump presidency, that "The good Lord gave me the right to remain silent but not the ability."
Overall, Kennedy's book definitely exemplifies his signature humor and is full of genuine intelligent commentary, and I learned some new history about the senate chamber and other things I didn't know. He gives some good history on himself and his political career in Louisiana, and I agree with him on many things like not blindly trusting the media and self-proclaimed "experts." There are some minor vague portions like his reference to "requiring members" to serve as substitute teachers for a year, but otherwise, this is a highly-recommended read.
Since I've been reading more nonfiction and enjoying it far more than fiction nowadays, Kennedy's book How to Test Negative for Stupid: And Why Washington Never Will showed up when I was searching on Amazon, so I decided to give it a purchase.
The introduction notes how he shares his name--at least his first and last, his middle name being Neely--with JFK, how his goal is to speak the truth. He gives his background of his election to the United States Senate, among his early tasks being seeing through the lies of a so-called "expert" who gave bad knowledge and had gotten money from a company that leaked data. He earned the scorn of President Joe Biden, and gives an analogy of providing Lindsay Lohan the keys to the minibar.
In the first chapter, Kennedy notes how he lives a boring life, which somewhat parallels mine--despite my own original wit, some of which I'll acknowledge was inspired by the senator--and how he ironically says he is a better reader and learner than writer. He gives the history of the U.S. Capitol, mentions a stuffed alligator named Alphonse he keeps in his office, and mentions how the Senate chamber is usually as "empty as a timeshare salesman's heart." He notes how many politician's brains stop working when they're elected to Congress, and provides interesting tidbits like only water and milk being allowed as beverages in the senate chamber. Kennedy notes the change of rules in 1975 of filibustering happening behind the scenes, and talks about his various fellow senators, some of which dropped the F-word during personal conversations. He mentions some interesting things like telling Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders to "pay his taxes"--and he's the world's richest socialist--and tells readers to "follow your heart, but take your brain with you."
In the second chapter, Kennedy talks about his home state of Louisiana, about his parents, and mentions a story about a school acquaintance named Billy who threatened to beat him up. He worked on his father's construction crew when he was eleven and as a cashier, learning an important lesson: "Life is hard, but it's harder when you're stupid." He went to several colleges including Louisiana Tech University, Vanderbilt University, the University of Virginia School of Law, and the University of Oxford, before marrying his wife Becky.
In the third chapter, Kennedy highlights a call from Louisiana Governor Buddy Roemer, noting that his state lagged behind the rest of America economically during the Reagan years. He earned enemies while working in the governor's office, with Roemer tackling issues like campaign finance, and Kennedy ultimately running for state attorney general.
The fourth chapter focuses on Kennedy's run for Louisiana Attorney General, where he talks philosophy, mentioning Friedrich Nietzsche and C.S. Lewis among others. He notes David Duke's run for governor, and how he lost his own run in a runoff, saying that Buddy Roemer went broke after leaving office. Kennedy worked as a lawyer in New Orleans, noting that Louisiana residents were torn between the state's 6% income tax back in 1996 and Texas' 0% rate. Kennedy himself would eventually win the race as state treasurer.
The fifth chapter notes that Kennedy served as a substitute teacher as he served as state treasurer, rightfully mentioning that public schools need competition given the high investment per capita into students across the nation. He gives a suggestion for "members" to serve as substitute teachers for a year, but is somewhat vague about whether he means politicians or people who want to be teachers, but the former would definitely be good if he meant that, since politicians are of course out of touch with the educational system. He talks about a friend he nicknamed "Senator Meathead," and mentions that he originally ran for the U.S. Senate as a Democrat, losing. Hurricane Katrina would hit New Oreleans, with Kennedy mentioning that FEMA has a rule about barring pets on buses, and tells the story of a man on a rooftop who wanted to be rescued by a helicopter rather than a boat. Corruption was one of Kennedy's issues to tackle in Louisiana, and wanted legislation prohibiting public officials or immediate family members from receiving construction repair contracts using federal funds, which was rejected by then-Governor Kathleen Blanco.
The sixth chapter focuses on Kennedy's race that would ultimately lead to his election as United States Senator, where David Duke ran again but naturally had trouble given his past demons. Kennedy became friends with Donald Trump and references his first and only debate with President Joe Biden in 2024, talking as well of Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency. Kennedy had to go into a runoff in 2016 due to Louisiana's unique election rules of multiple candidates from each political party being able to run in the general election, and ended up winning in a landslide in the runoffs.
The seventh chapter focuses on Kennedy entering the Senate the following year, joining new senators from both parties such as Kamala Harris among the Democrats, noting that Trump Derangement Syndrome was alive and well back then, seeing through the fake evidence of his alleged collusion with Russia. Kennedy mentions attending a Gridiron Dinner for journalists and how they easily laughed at jokes about Republicans but not about Democrats. Then he discusses the witch-hunts by Democrats against Trump over his "perfect phone call" with Ukrainian president Volodimir Zelenskyy, and the First Step Act to reduce the sentences of nonviolent criminals in federal prisons.
The eighth chapter talks about the Biden presidency, how the former president competed in the Woke Olympics, given his bow to DEI initiatives to satisfy fringe groups and transgender extremism like advocating transitions for minors. Biden was unpopular throughout his presidency, with Kennedy ejected from the White House when asked by the president if he wanted to see the residence's movie theater. The senator notes that the "loon wing" took over the Democratic Party--and still controls it today--with Biden making numerous DEI appointments like judicial nominee Charnelle Bjelkengren, who couldn't answer questions about the various articles of the US Constitution but was confirmed by the Senate anyway. He states that in his first term, Donald Trump had pulled Matthew Petersen as an appointee given his lack of experience and inability to answer questions in a hearing. Kennedy notes in the chapter, "I don't think we need people in the federal government, in the Senate or otherwise, who will further inflame those passions by seeking retribution against their enemies."
In the ninth chapter, Kennedy notes that the Biden administration attempted to witch-hunt Trump and his supporters, with Trump back in the White House attempting to end the weaponization of the government against political enemies. Pam Bondi would become Attorney General and Kash Patel head of the FBI, with the senator stating that conservatives and leftists alike were jailed by the Department of Justice well before Biden, many conspiracy theories turned out to be true, the Trump-Russia collusion benign a hoax, and the content on Hunter Biden's laptop being kept from the public. During the Biden administration, Democrats hated the Supreme Court given decisions such as overturning Roe v. Wade and still want to "pack" it, with politicians in general not respecting the federal judiciary.
In the tenth chapter, Kennedy highlights his positions on various issues starting on immigration, with Joe Biden having let in millions unvetted during his presidency, Obama having a "catch, release, and forget" policy, and Trump reversing that. The senator rightfully disdains the media, which hasn't been subtle about its obvious bias, with leftist and rightist outlets largely being echo chambers. Crime is another issue for him, and he notes that not enforcing the law and backing the police have spiked crime. He highlights California Governor Gavin Newsom's law saying it's not theft if you steal $950 worth of goods or less, that crime hurts poor communities the worst, and that "stop and frisk" procedures from cops are necessary, though many cities like Chicago have long red tape regarding that.
He mentions China as a growing threat to America, and discusses the rise of transgender ideology under the Biden presidency, noting immutable physical differences between males and females, and how his op-ed about the topic was taken down and eviscerated. The final section discusses race, Kennedy saying America is not a racist country, having gone from learning history to lashing out at it, and how he was accused as "racist" for asking an unqualified black judicial nominee questions that had nothing to do with race. He notes the poor education achievement among blacks, rise of single-mother households, how circumstances of birth don't decide life outcomes, and that we should learn from history instead of canceling it.
In the epilogue, Kennedy says he has hope for the second Trump presidency, that "The good Lord gave me the right to remain silent but not the ability."
Overall, Kennedy's book definitely exemplifies his signature humor and is full of genuine intelligent commentary, and I learned some new history about the senate chamber and other things I didn't know. He gives some good history on himself and his political career in Louisiana, and I agree with him on many things like not blindly trusting the media and self-proclaimed "experts." There are some minor vague portions like his reference to "requiring members" to serve as substitute teachers for a year, but otherwise, this is a highly-recommended read.
November 10, 2025
Kennedy is the funniest person in the Senate — and even though he likes to play simple, he’s probably one of the smartest, too, as an Oxford-educated lawyer. This is a fun memoir and look inside the Senate, full of amusing one-liners. The audiobook, which he narrates, is definitely the way to go.
November 3, 2025
10/10 recommend!! Listen to audiobook and it was fantastic! Told by Senator Kennedy his self .
October 29, 2025
The following paragraph is the last paragraph of the Forward; it is everything you need to know as to WHY you should read this book! I am from Louisiana and Senator Kennedy has become my hero for his humor and how candidly he speaks on all topics, nothing is off-limits! He reminds me of the old cartoon character Foghorn Leghorn who also used quips to get a point across. You can read the last paragraph as it was written or you can read it below as none other than Foghorn Leghorn would have said it according to ChatGPT. Either way, I hope it tweaks your interest enough to read the book.
I say, I say now boy, listen up! This here book, son, this book is for folks who might, I say might get a chuckle—or maybe shed a tear—learnin’ about a few of the misadventures, I say experiences, that ol’ rooster here has had struttin’ ‘round that fancy coop they call the United States Senate. Some of ‘em are funny, some of ‘em ain’t so much—like a fox in a henhouse, ya never know what’s comin’ next!
Now don’t go thinkin’ senators are a bunch o’ young chicks—they’re all over forty, son, and some of ‘em been sittin’ on that roost so long their feathers done turned gray! Keep readin’, boy, you’ll see what I mean soon enough. (That means keep readin’, ya hear?)
This here book’s also for them curious folks—probably not too many of ya—who want to know just how this ol’ senator rooster came to be the way he is, why he crows when he crows, and why he scratches where he scratches. It’s about sayin’ what others just think but don’t have the gumption to say out loud.
It’s about the mighty weapon called candor, son—that’s honesty with spurs on it—and that’s somethin’ most folks up in Washington, D.C. only flirt with at cocktail parties. And I’ll tell ya one more thing—this book’s hopin’ to light a fire under ya, to make you bold enough to speak your mind and ruffle a few feathers doin’ it. Sometimes makin’ the right folks mad is the only way to know you’re tellin’ the truth.
Hopefully Foghorn has lit a fire beneath you to read Senator Kennedy’s book. You will discover as I did, the book is written very much like how we have become accustomed to hearing him when he speaks. Every page contains one-liners worth remembering and worthy of quoting.
Whether you like Attorneys or more specifically Senator Kennedy who happens to be an attorney or if you like neither, you will probably like him by the time you finish reading Chapter 4.
The first part of the book describes Kennedy’s history, his education, how he developed his beliefs and character and how he became involved in politics. It is an interesting story and it may come as a complete surprise to you. At times, he comes across as a Foghorn Leghorn type character but there is a wealth of information enhanced through education hidden beneath his oftentimes humorous responses. Senator Kennedy holds back no punches!
The book provides an insight as to how the U. S. Senate works or doesn’t work and why. I found the book to be a page turner, very had to put down and well worth the read!
Who should read this book? Anyone interested in politics or how the U. S. Senate works or doesn’t work.
Would I read it again? Probably not but will use it as a reference book.
Would I give the book as a gift? Most definitely, regardless of a person’s political affiliation because it is an eye-opener as to how the U. S. Senate and politics in general work.
I say, I say now boy, listen up! This here book, son, this book is for folks who might, I say might get a chuckle—or maybe shed a tear—learnin’ about a few of the misadventures, I say experiences, that ol’ rooster here has had struttin’ ‘round that fancy coop they call the United States Senate. Some of ‘em are funny, some of ‘em ain’t so much—like a fox in a henhouse, ya never know what’s comin’ next!
Now don’t go thinkin’ senators are a bunch o’ young chicks—they’re all over forty, son, and some of ‘em been sittin’ on that roost so long their feathers done turned gray! Keep readin’, boy, you’ll see what I mean soon enough. (That means keep readin’, ya hear?)
This here book’s also for them curious folks—probably not too many of ya—who want to know just how this ol’ senator rooster came to be the way he is, why he crows when he crows, and why he scratches where he scratches. It’s about sayin’ what others just think but don’t have the gumption to say out loud.
It’s about the mighty weapon called candor, son—that’s honesty with spurs on it—and that’s somethin’ most folks up in Washington, D.C. only flirt with at cocktail parties. And I’ll tell ya one more thing—this book’s hopin’ to light a fire under ya, to make you bold enough to speak your mind and ruffle a few feathers doin’ it. Sometimes makin’ the right folks mad is the only way to know you’re tellin’ the truth.
Hopefully Foghorn has lit a fire beneath you to read Senator Kennedy’s book. You will discover as I did, the book is written very much like how we have become accustomed to hearing him when he speaks. Every page contains one-liners worth remembering and worthy of quoting.
Whether you like Attorneys or more specifically Senator Kennedy who happens to be an attorney or if you like neither, you will probably like him by the time you finish reading Chapter 4.
The first part of the book describes Kennedy’s history, his education, how he developed his beliefs and character and how he became involved in politics. It is an interesting story and it may come as a complete surprise to you. At times, he comes across as a Foghorn Leghorn type character but there is a wealth of information enhanced through education hidden beneath his oftentimes humorous responses. Senator Kennedy holds back no punches!
The book provides an insight as to how the U. S. Senate works or doesn’t work and why. I found the book to be a page turner, very had to put down and well worth the read!
Who should read this book? Anyone interested in politics or how the U. S. Senate works or doesn’t work.
Would I read it again? Probably not but will use it as a reference book.
Would I give the book as a gift? Most definitely, regardless of a person’s political affiliation because it is an eye-opener as to how the U. S. Senate and politics in general work.
November 22, 2025
John Kennedy has long been my favorite politician in the United States Senate. His ability to say what people are thinking in his own signature way is one of the things I love about him. I was just saying to someone not many months ago that if he wrote a book, I'd be reading it. I was pleasantly surprised to find that he had in fact written a book. So, I ordered it...and waited...and waited. Amazon just couldn't keep copies in stock and I was pushed back a month from the time I ordered it.
Let me tell you, the wait was worth it. This book was everything I hoped it would be. Kennedy details his early life, his law practice, and his entry into politics. He talks about some of the crazy characters he's encountered in both state and national politics. And he talks with candor about his frustration with bureaucratic red tape that stalls things and keeps America in limbo.
I think all people, Democrat and Republican and everything in between, will enjoy this. If you're a Democrat and are worried about Kennedy being a Trump loyalist, I can assure you that he's not. He knows his own mind and votes with his heart. And that means being at odds at times with President Trump. Republicans already like Kennedy. This book will make you like him more.
Do yourself a favor. Listen to the audiobook as well. Hearing the stories in Kennedy's own voice just completely adds to the experience. If you've ever heard him interviewed or tell a story on the news, you know what you're in for.
Highly recommended!
Let me tell you, the wait was worth it. This book was everything I hoped it would be. Kennedy details his early life, his law practice, and his entry into politics. He talks about some of the crazy characters he's encountered in both state and national politics. And he talks with candor about his frustration with bureaucratic red tape that stalls things and keeps America in limbo.
I think all people, Democrat and Republican and everything in between, will enjoy this. If you're a Democrat and are worried about Kennedy being a Trump loyalist, I can assure you that he's not. He knows his own mind and votes with his heart. And that means being at odds at times with President Trump. Republicans already like Kennedy. This book will make you like him more.
Do yourself a favor. Listen to the audiobook as well. Hearing the stories in Kennedy's own voice just completely adds to the experience. If you've ever heard him interviewed or tell a story on the news, you know what you're in for.
Highly recommended!
November 18, 2025
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” offers the Senator’s tongue-in-cheek guidebook through Washington, punctuated by his thoughts on various issues and humorous stories about life from Louisiana politics and inside the Senate. From the mind – and mouth – of "America's Most Quotable Senator": “Always be yourself . . . unless you suck.”; “I say this gently: This is why the aliens won’t talk to us.”; “If you trust government, you obviously failed history class.”; “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’m not going to Bubble Wrap it: The water in Washington, D.C., won’t clear up until you get the pigs out of the creek.”; “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.” Good political read.
October 29, 2025
Without a doubt the most enjoyable book on politics I have ever read...simply because the author (Kennedy) uses his good wit, humor and sarcasm to tell us all about the weirdness of you guessed it... Washington. In talking about the media he writes, "They think it's immoral to fire bad employees, to cut wasteful spending, to deport illegal immigrants, to like cops, prosecute most thieves who steal less than $950, to ask questions about vaccines and lockdowns, to use the wrong pronoun, to oppose sex-change operations for kids, to oppose trans people in women's bathrooms or locker rooms or sports, to oppose critical race theory in schools, to oppose the reading of porn in schools, and to oppose racial quotas." Previous to that he wrote that every day he prays to God not to let him hate anybody, which is a tall order because he works in Washington. "Sometimes I get up in my overpriced Capitol Hill apartment and give myself a pep talk on my way to work: 'Kennedy, today you are going to follow Jesus.'" "By 10.am. I still want to follow Jesus, but I also want to slap somebody. Still, I refuse to hate. And that includes the media."
October 26, 2025
more insightful than expected
I purchased this book because I watched Senator Kennedy speaking on the news where his new book was mentioned with several of his humorous remarks. The book was not leg-slapping hilarious but it was humorous throughout. It was fun to read. And Senator Kennedy ended up being very knowledgeable about the breadth of issues haunting America presently and over the last number of years. His remarks were very insightful and usually humorous but will obviously attract more right-leaning readers than left, even though his views are overwhelmingly middle of the road. Unfortunately, that not what the left wants to hear nor some of the right.
This book was almost like sitting on the front porch and listening to a smart man relate his experiences of life (with a strong leaning to his time in the political community, both local and federal). I very much enjoyed this book and the way points were, gently for the most part, presented. Highly recommend.
I purchased this book because I watched Senator Kennedy speaking on the news where his new book was mentioned with several of his humorous remarks. The book was not leg-slapping hilarious but it was humorous throughout. It was fun to read. And Senator Kennedy ended up being very knowledgeable about the breadth of issues haunting America presently and over the last number of years. His remarks were very insightful and usually humorous but will obviously attract more right-leaning readers than left, even though his views are overwhelmingly middle of the road. Unfortunately, that not what the left wants to hear nor some of the right.
This book was almost like sitting on the front porch and listening to a smart man relate his experiences of life (with a strong leaning to his time in the political community, both local and federal). I very much enjoyed this book and the way points were, gently for the most part, presented. Highly recommend.
November 15, 2025
Listened to the audiobook version. This book was everything I hoped it would be: smart, sharp, and laugh-out-loud funny in that classic Kennedy way. His one-liners alone could fill a whole book, but what surprised me most was how much substance sits under the humor.
He cuts through political nonsense with plainspoken common sense, and honestly, it was refreshing. The chapters move fast, the writing feels like he’s talking straight to you, and the mix of personal stories, policy commentary, and humor kept me hooked the entire time.
What I loved most:
- The humor. He makes politics actually fun to read about.
- His honesty and bluntness. No sugarcoating, no fluff.
- Clear points about what’s broken in Washington.
- He has a tone that’s equal parts clever, heartfelt, and fed-up in the best way.
Most political books tend to feel like homework, but this one certainly didn’t. It’s witty, fast-moving, and surprisingly thoughtful. I closed it feeling like I got both entertainment and a ton of insight.
Highly recommend! Easiest 5 stars I’ve ever given.
He cuts through political nonsense with plainspoken common sense, and honestly, it was refreshing. The chapters move fast, the writing feels like he’s talking straight to you, and the mix of personal stories, policy commentary, and humor kept me hooked the entire time.
What I loved most:
- The humor. He makes politics actually fun to read about.
- His honesty and bluntness. No sugarcoating, no fluff.
- Clear points about what’s broken in Washington.
- He has a tone that’s equal parts clever, heartfelt, and fed-up in the best way.
Most political books tend to feel like homework, but this one certainly didn’t. It’s witty, fast-moving, and surprisingly thoughtful. I closed it feeling like I got both entertainment and a ton of insight.
Highly recommend! Easiest 5 stars I’ve ever given.
November 5, 2025
I actually read this on Audible audio, with the author narrating the book himself. I generally read very few political books, but with my love of Louisiana, and since I first heard Senator Kennedy speak, I have really admired him for his plain speak, and never beating around the bush and especially for his humor. Although a lot of the book was not particularly humorous, his humor and personality showed loud and clear in the chapters of this book. While there was biographical background to be sure, he really seemed to spend minimal time on his life, and much more emphasis on his philosophy. I appreciate the fact that no matter which side of the political aisle we are talking about, he tells the truth about the politicians whether it is to complement or criticize. His honesty really shines through this book. I am also glad I ended up listening to him read his own book, rather than reading it on my own.
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.”
November 7, 2025
This book is an amazing compilation of wisdom and humor. John is willing to accept the fact that he knows that God gives him the ability to keep his mouth shut, but he lacks the control. That's to our benefit.
The book provides some background into some of the personalities in the Senate. But more than that, it provides an understanding of what can cause some of the gridlock in the system that we have. He makes a strong case that our political system isn't perfect, but it's the best thing going.
The book gets better as you move along. The closing chapters cover some of the most important concepts in our time, including China, immigration, transgender athletes, and dealing with poverty.
I highly recommend this book. It's an easy read, and you will acquire valuable knowledge along the way.
The book provides some background into some of the personalities in the Senate. But more than that, it provides an understanding of what can cause some of the gridlock in the system that we have. He makes a strong case that our political system isn't perfect, but it's the best thing going.
The book gets better as you move along. The closing chapters cover some of the most important concepts in our time, including China, immigration, transgender athletes, and dealing with poverty.
I highly recommend this book. It's an easy read, and you will acquire valuable knowledge along the way.
October 29, 2025
He Calls ‘em Like He Sees ‘em
In his recent book “How to Test Negative for Stupid” Louisiana Senator John Kennedy brings his home-spun humor and satiric observations on society and government, so familiar to cable news viewers, to an interesting memoir. Think Mark Twain and Will Rogers as US Senators. Cutting wit mixed with inescapable truth. Irreverent, inimitable and inarguable. He calls ‘em like he sees ‘em, and is revealing and critical without enmity. I would have preferred less of the memoir content and more of the observations on contemporary American society and government (which comprise most of the final third of the book), but Kennedy nonetheless offers a refreshing perspective that is recommended highly.
In his recent book “How to Test Negative for Stupid” Louisiana Senator John Kennedy brings his home-spun humor and satiric observations on society and government, so familiar to cable news viewers, to an interesting memoir. Think Mark Twain and Will Rogers as US Senators. Cutting wit mixed with inescapable truth. Irreverent, inimitable and inarguable. He calls ‘em like he sees ‘em, and is revealing and critical without enmity. I would have preferred less of the memoir content and more of the observations on contemporary American society and government (which comprise most of the final third of the book), but Kennedy nonetheless offers a refreshing perspective that is recommended highly.
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