Crossing the Aisle: How Bipartisanship Brought Tennessee to the Twenty-First Century and Could Save America

by Keel Hunt

The latter third of the twentieth century was a time of fundamental political transition across the South as increasing numbers of voters began to choose Republican candidates over Democrats. Yet in the 1980s and '90s, reform-focused policymaking—from better schools to improved highways and health care—flourished in Tennessee. This was the work of moderate leaders from both parties who had a capacity to work together "across the aisle."

The Tennessee story, as the Pulitzer Prize–winning author Jon Meacham observes in his foreword to this book, offers striking examples of bipartisan cooperation on many policy fronts—and a mode of governing that provides lessons for America in this frustrating era of partisan stalemate.

For more on Crossing the Aisle and author Keel Hunt, visit KeelHunt.com.

368 pages, Hardcover

Published November 6, 2018

Reviews

[Barbara Williams 9 · Rating 2 out of 5]

Zzzzzzz

I struggled with this book havIng made the mistake of trying to read it as a narrative history. While there are interesting snapshots of recollected events and some good photos, it isn’t sustainable as a story of bipartisan politics in the great state of Tennessee. However, it is a wonderful research tool for anyone interested in a study of some specific elements of Tennessee history. The index is comprehensive.

[Brian Tapp · Rating 4 out of 5]

Received this book as a gift as a part of Leadership Knoxville. We heard Mr. Hunt speak in Nashville about how our political and civic leaders have worked together to solve big problems. It interesting to hear the inside scoop on how Tennessee landed some of the premier auto manufacturers and sports teams.

[Mark O'brien · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a valuable book for people who want to know about major moments in Tennessee history in the past 30 years. And its overriding theme is that people from different parties/philosophies can work together for common good.

But the lengthy, you-were-there approach makes the book way too long and winding for a non-insider.

[Mark Bunch · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great history book on modern Tennessee politics. This one will remain on my office book shelve. all the tales of modern dealmaking in state government.