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In Trump's Shadow: The Battle for 2024 and the Future of the GOP
Based on extensive reporting, a Game of Thrones-like telling of what comes next for the factions and families within the Republican Party as they plot for supremacy in the post-Trump era.
With Trump’s four years in the White House now in the rearview, an unprecedented period in American political history is concluded. The transition, however, has set off a mad scramble for control of a Republican Party that for so long has reflected the domineering image of one man—and might even still in the years ahead. Who emerges from the warring factions and familial rivalries that proliferated and quietly festered during Trump’s presidency could determine the fate of the GOP for a generation, and the first hint of what’s to come begins with the 2024 campaign to crown the first Republican nominee, and national party leader, of the post-Trump era.
With Trump’s exit, a singular era in American political history has ended—and the Republican Party, whose identity had for so long been centered around one man, will be forced to redefine itself for the future.
Featuring profiles of everyone from Mike Pence, Mike Pompeo, and Nikki Haley to Marco Rubio, Ted Cruz, and those in the Trump family, In Trump's Shadow tells the story of a GOP under—and after—the forty-fifth president, and all of those jousting for influence over the party’s direction in the wake of Donald Trump.
With Trump’s four years in the White House now in the rearview, an unprecedented period in American political history is concluded. The transition, however, has set off a mad scramble for control of a Republican Party that for so long has reflected the domineering image of one man—and might even still in the years ahead. Who emerges from the warring factions and familial rivalries that proliferated and quietly festered during Trump’s presidency could determine the fate of the GOP for a generation, and the first hint of what’s to come begins with the 2024 campaign to crown the first Republican nominee, and national party leader, of the post-Trump era.
With Trump’s exit, a singular era in American political history has ended—and the Republican Party, whose identity had for so long been centered around one man, will be forced to redefine itself for the future.
Featuring profiles of everyone from Mike Pence, Mike Pompeo, and Nikki Haley to Marco Rubio, Ted Cruz, and those in the Trump family, In Trump's Shadow tells the story of a GOP under—and after—the forty-fifth president, and all of those jousting for influence over the party’s direction in the wake of Donald Trump.
- GenresPoliticsNonfiction
288 pages, Hardcover
Published October 19, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
December 4, 2021
One might think it early to study the 2024 primary field, but there is value in thinking ahead. Conservative journalist David M. Drucker provides a thoughtful analysis in this book, filled with interviews and behind-the-scenes details. It is an inherently speculative book, but the Washington Times writer approaches it as an imperfect field guide to studying a party that has moved from being in Reagan's shadow to being in Trump's.
Drucker opens the book with the recognition that it would be impossible to cover all possible contenders, and instead narrows it to a still-quite-lengthy list. He then proceeds to dedicate a chapter each to just those who are "already running". Though I seek to keep this review free of spoilers, I will say who those figures he covers at length are: cold culture warrior and populist Arkansas senator Tom Cotton, "common sense conservative" and Florida senator Marco Rubio, unlikeable yet suddenly popular former presidential candidate and Texas senator Ted Cruz, heavily ambitious hawk and former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, practical former administration official and governor Nikki Haley, and the expected quasi-loyalist Mike Pence. He spends a not-insignificant amount of time with Never Trump figures such as Maryland governor Larry Hogan and former presidential candidate Evan McMullin, though he questions whether there is a market for them. One benefit of this book is that each chapter is self-contained enough that you can read it on its own if you only have an interest in one figure, of whom all are fascinating.
As he breaks down the strengths of each and provides honest critiques of their flaws, Drucker provides a great lens into the potential field. It is not a comprehensive text, but it makes a good faith attempt to study the party beyond Trump. The author's interviews with many of the candidates provide additional insights, including some confirmations of a run. Drucker clearly has biases as a conservative journalist, and it's clear he sees little future for the center-right of the GOP, but this book is quite readable for folks of all stripes. You can disagree with some of his insights while still seeing the importance of studying them.
Drucker even sits down with Donald Trump himself for a two hour interview. As much as many would want something different, Trump doesn't seem to want to go anywhere. Drucker also analyzes in more detail the Trump children and their political ambitions than I have seen most journalists do. They are not all equally stupid or loyal to their father as the press makes us think, and there should be worries on the left and center-right about what will become of them someday. This Trump dynasty could haunt the United States for decades to come.
Drucker is a strongly opinionated yet studious and intelligent writer, and I found this book highly readable. This is the only book I have found so far of its kind, making it essential for those who may be thinking ahead to 2024. This book is not a necessity for anyone other than Republicans, who should really give it a read, but political junkies of all backgrounds will find themselves sucked in. I hope Drucker puts out another book as the election approaches: we need his wisdom as the next presidential race circus begins.
Drucker opens the book with the recognition that it would be impossible to cover all possible contenders, and instead narrows it to a still-quite-lengthy list. He then proceeds to dedicate a chapter each to just those who are "already running". Though I seek to keep this review free of spoilers, I will say who those figures he covers at length are: cold culture warrior and populist Arkansas senator Tom Cotton, "common sense conservative" and Florida senator Marco Rubio, unlikeable yet suddenly popular former presidential candidate and Texas senator Ted Cruz, heavily ambitious hawk and former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, practical former administration official and governor Nikki Haley, and the expected quasi-loyalist Mike Pence. He spends a not-insignificant amount of time with Never Trump figures such as Maryland governor Larry Hogan and former presidential candidate Evan McMullin, though he questions whether there is a market for them. One benefit of this book is that each chapter is self-contained enough that you can read it on its own if you only have an interest in one figure, of whom all are fascinating.
As he breaks down the strengths of each and provides honest critiques of their flaws, Drucker provides a great lens into the potential field. It is not a comprehensive text, but it makes a good faith attempt to study the party beyond Trump. The author's interviews with many of the candidates provide additional insights, including some confirmations of a run. Drucker clearly has biases as a conservative journalist, and it's clear he sees little future for the center-right of the GOP, but this book is quite readable for folks of all stripes. You can disagree with some of his insights while still seeing the importance of studying them.
Drucker even sits down with Donald Trump himself for a two hour interview. As much as many would want something different, Trump doesn't seem to want to go anywhere. Drucker also analyzes in more detail the Trump children and their political ambitions than I have seen most journalists do. They are not all equally stupid or loyal to their father as the press makes us think, and there should be worries on the left and center-right about what will become of them someday. This Trump dynasty could haunt the United States for decades to come.
Drucker is a strongly opinionated yet studious and intelligent writer, and I found this book highly readable. This is the only book I have found so far of its kind, making it essential for those who may be thinking ahead to 2024. This book is not a necessity for anyone other than Republicans, who should really give it a read, but political junkies of all backgrounds will find themselves sucked in. I hope Drucker puts out another book as the election approaches: we need his wisdom as the next presidential race circus begins.
October 6, 2021
4.5 stars. I absolutely loved the experience of reading this book, but -.5 stars for making me overly attached to Republicans. Drucker is amazing at creating compelling characters out of bland, scary, or unlikeable people. The book focused mostly on the political maneuvering, ignoring policy, which made it less depressing--it was easy to forget about the policies I disagree with. Super interesting read.
September 18, 2022
Before they outlaw sex, and burn us all to the ground -- you should read this book.
Because of the shockwaves of J.F.K.'s assassination, the insanity is still breaking like breakweather across all of their heads, and it's amusing to see them fighting, like ants, or flies in the ointment -- they got nowhere to go, but keep slicing it thinner. (What else??) Reading this will also, of course, help you regain your revolutionary birthright, as bequeathed to you from Kubrick (Dr. Strangelove) and Pynchon (V.), works conceived before the assassination and barely shunted under the door, like Indiana Jones grabbing the hat in Raiders of the Lost Ark -- so we made it, but barely, but look at these idiots. (Who would give up sanity? Sorry, we're not going to try -- )
On the other hand, there's at least Mario Rubio:
Yet in between these moments, Rubio is consumed with governing, never fully comfortable with the actions he's compelled to take on the campaign trail to preserve the platform nor the notoriety that affords his ability to do so.
"It's a difficult time to be in public service because of that balancing act," Rubio told me during a telephone conversation we had in the late summer of 2020, less than two months before Election Day, with the country still engulfed in a raging pandemic. "There's a price to pay for the decision to deliberately pit people against each other, and often that price comes as the ability to govern at a critical moment."
Rubio elaborated: "What I always remind people is of if 9/11 happened again, now, God forbid, would we as a nation react the same way we did in 2001? I think there's no one that could tell you we would. I think, almost immediately, it would become: 'Whose fault is it?'"
The tightrope Rubio feels as though he is walking, and whether Republican voters have any interest in a leader who would rather govern than provoke, is weighing heavily on his 2024 plans.
Do voters want what he's selling? They didn't last time.
But just for yuks -- and to end on a lighter note -- here's the funniest quote in the whole book:
"The greatest privilege of my life is to serve as vice president to a president who's keeping his word to the American people; assembling a team that's bringing real change, real prosperity, real strength back to our nation . . . I know I speak on behalf of the entire cabinet, of millions of Americans, when I say, 'Congratulations and thank you.' Thank you for seeing through the course of this year an agenda that truly is restoring this country . . . And I'm deeply humbled as your vice president to be here."—Mike Pence
Boy, he doesn't really get out much, does he . . . ?? "The greatest privilege of my life" — he probably should have left the house, more than once, before taking the job!!!
(BAH-DUMP-BUM!!!)
Thanks, folks — I'm here all week!
Don't forget to tip your waitress!!!
Etc.
#kubrickandPYNCHON
Because of the shockwaves of J.F.K.'s assassination, the insanity is still breaking like breakweather across all of their heads, and it's amusing to see them fighting, like ants, or flies in the ointment -- they got nowhere to go, but keep slicing it thinner. (What else??) Reading this will also, of course, help you regain your revolutionary birthright, as bequeathed to you from Kubrick (Dr. Strangelove) and Pynchon (V.), works conceived before the assassination and barely shunted under the door, like Indiana Jones grabbing the hat in Raiders of the Lost Ark -- so we made it, but barely, but look at these idiots. (Who would give up sanity? Sorry, we're not going to try -- )
On the other hand, there's at least Mario Rubio:
Yet in between these moments, Rubio is consumed with governing, never fully comfortable with the actions he's compelled to take on the campaign trail to preserve the platform nor the notoriety that affords his ability to do so.
"It's a difficult time to be in public service because of that balancing act," Rubio told me during a telephone conversation we had in the late summer of 2020, less than two months before Election Day, with the country still engulfed in a raging pandemic. "There's a price to pay for the decision to deliberately pit people against each other, and often that price comes as the ability to govern at a critical moment."
Rubio elaborated: "What I always remind people is of if 9/11 happened again, now, God forbid, would we as a nation react the same way we did in 2001? I think there's no one that could tell you we would. I think, almost immediately, it would become: 'Whose fault is it?'"
The tightrope Rubio feels as though he is walking, and whether Republican voters have any interest in a leader who would rather govern than provoke, is weighing heavily on his 2024 plans.
Do voters want what he's selling? They didn't last time.
But just for yuks -- and to end on a lighter note -- here's the funniest quote in the whole book:
"The greatest privilege of my life is to serve as vice president to a president who's keeping his word to the American people; assembling a team that's bringing real change, real prosperity, real strength back to our nation . . . I know I speak on behalf of the entire cabinet, of millions of Americans, when I say, 'Congratulations and thank you.' Thank you for seeing through the course of this year an agenda that truly is restoring this country . . . And I'm deeply humbled as your vice president to be here."—Mike Pence
Boy, he doesn't really get out much, does he . . . ?? "The greatest privilege of my life" — he probably should have left the house, more than once, before taking the job!!!
(BAH-DUMP-BUM!!!)
Thanks, folks — I'm here all week!
Don't forget to tip your waitress!!!
Etc.
#kubrickandPYNCHON
April 3, 2022
Great read. Very well written with terrific insights to the movers in the GOP beyond Trump, while providing new perspectives from Trump himself.
October 18, 2021
An interesting overview of the field of potential 2024 GOP presidential contenders. Drucker takes a more-or-less deep dive into the bios, characters and accomplishments of Tom Cotton, Marco Rubio, Larry Hogan, Ted Cruz, Mike Pompeo, Mike Pence, Nikki Haley, and the Never Trump movement in general (with some particular focus on Will Hurd and Evan McMullin). If you want to know more about these figures, especially from a sympathetic-but-not-sycophantic point of view than you'll find in many places online (Drucker at times in the book styles himself as a Reagan Republican, with the dismay toward Trumpism etc. that implies but broadly in agreement with the more traditional values of the party), this is a good place to start. Each of them receives a candid look at why they might decide to run for president, why they might be qualified to run for president at all, and what challenges they would have to overcome to win a primary -- not least the lurking presence of the focus of the book's last chapter, Donald Trump himself.
You'll note I didn't include some people like Greg Abbott, Josh Hawley, Ron DeSantis, and Kristi Noem in the list of "potential candidates" the book covers. Drucker acknowledges the book is not comprehensive, and does give a brief rundown of some of the bigger names he didn't include. Some (like Hawley and DeSantis) he explicitly believes won't run, some (like Ben Sasse or Liz Cheney) he doesn't think would be successful. Some, like Noem, he seems to have just run out of time or space to cover. Which is fine, you can't include everybody, but I will be very interested to see how his list of serious contenders maps to the actual primaries a few years from now. As such, the book might age poorly, but for right now it's an informative primer.
You'll note I didn't include some people like Greg Abbott, Josh Hawley, Ron DeSantis, and Kristi Noem in the list of "potential candidates" the book covers. Drucker acknowledges the book is not comprehensive, and does give a brief rundown of some of the bigger names he didn't include. Some (like Hawley and DeSantis) he explicitly believes won't run, some (like Ben Sasse or Liz Cheney) he doesn't think would be successful. Some, like Noem, he seems to have just run out of time or space to cover. Which is fine, you can't include everybody, but I will be very interested to see how his list of serious contenders maps to the actual primaries a few years from now. As such, the book might age poorly, but for right now it's an informative primer.
November 4, 2021
I've read pretty much all of the tell alls about the mistakes the 45th president made and how he tried to stage a coup and overthrow the election -- how he tried and continues to try to become a dictator and throw out our constitution so I thought it was time to read one that showed him in a better light. Drucker does that -- but it's not like Lewendowski's "Trump is wonderful" books -- instead Drucker gives a fact based look at what happened. Of course Drucker is a journalist and presenting facts in a clear and cogent matter is required for him to do his job well. He does just that but this is not a dry non-fiction. Yes, it is packed with facts, but told in an engaging manner.
But this is not about the former president in an of itself. As the title clear says -- this is about the future of the GOP and who is in the wings. Drucker starts out by making clear who he thinks will not be discussed as a republican contender in 2024 and gives his reasons why. He then looks at who he sees as the front runners and where their strengths and weaknesses lie. Even though we are 3 years out from election day 2024, this book was, for me, a foundation of why to watch and why. I've calendared to re-read it in late 2023 to see where Drucker was right and how things are turning out. In some ways the book is before its time because of the election being 3 years out - but at the same time, for people like me, it's a start on my personal watch of the 2024 election.
But this is not about the former president in an of itself. As the title clear says -- this is about the future of the GOP and who is in the wings. Drucker starts out by making clear who he thinks will not be discussed as a republican contender in 2024 and gives his reasons why. He then looks at who he sees as the front runners and where their strengths and weaknesses lie. Even though we are 3 years out from election day 2024, this book was, for me, a foundation of why to watch and why. I've calendared to re-read it in late 2023 to see where Drucker was right and how things are turning out. In some ways the book is before its time because of the election being 3 years out - but at the same time, for people like me, it's a start on my personal watch of the 2024 election.
December 29, 2021
I actually enjoyed reading this. Usually political books are dry reads, especially books about Trump and the modern day ReTrumplican party but this one was a well researched book about some of the most logical contenders to possibly run for President in 2024 should Trump himself decide not to run. After reading about the contenders, I have a much more positive outlook for the Republican Party. I’m an Independent voter and usually vote for a persons policies and not the person themself but after Trump’s total and complete lack of integrity and moral character, I no longer separate the two. This book chooses the candidates that have a chance in 2024 and outlines their bios, campaign style, issues and their support (or lack of) of Trump and his methods. He writes about Tom Cotton, Marco Rubio, Larry Hogan, Ted Cruz, Mike Pompeo, Mike Pence and Nikki Haley. He also discusses the Never Trumpers. Overall, I liked this book and the writing style of the author. I would recommend it to anyone interested in the Republican 2024 presidential nominee selection. My only complaint is that in each section the author jumps foreword and backwards in time during the 2016 campaign and the 2020 campaign and so at times the narrative wasn’t smooth but that is a minor glitch. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
January 9, 2023
My primary interest in this book was to see what kind of writer David Drucker is. One of my favorite political, cultural, spiritual writers (yes, he is that diverse) is David French who is leaving The Dispatch, my primary news source for the New York Times. Drucker has just been hired at The Dispatch to take his place - as if anyone can. Reading this has not done much to ease my disappointment at French's move.
Drucker goes behind the scenes to assess which of the potential GOP 2024 candidates are likely to attempt a run and how or why they might succeed. Obviously, this book went to print before the results of 2022 midterms were known, a fact that, I think, makes some, if not many, of Drucker's assumptions invalid. The next two years of House "leadership" will also likely play a major role.
Drucker's analysis is probably on target, but he could tighten his writing. I try to keep my politics offline, but, in my opinion, Drucker is far too conciliatory and generous regarding Trump and his presidency.
Drucker goes behind the scenes to assess which of the potential GOP 2024 candidates are likely to attempt a run and how or why they might succeed. Obviously, this book went to print before the results of 2022 midterms were known, a fact that, I think, makes some, if not many, of Drucker's assumptions invalid. The next two years of House "leadership" will also likely play a major role.
Drucker's analysis is probably on target, but he could tighten his writing. I try to keep my politics offline, but, in my opinion, Drucker is far too conciliatory and generous regarding Trump and his presidency.
June 12, 2022
In Trump’s Shadow by David M Drucker is a look into those he sees as the front runners for the upcoming presidential race. This book is a good way to prepare yourself for the upcoming campaign. It covers, in depth, Senators Tom Cotton, Ted Cruz and Marco Rubio, former Rep Will Hurd, former VP Mike Pence, former Ambassador/Governor Nikki Haley, Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and former President Trump. While this is not a book about the former President, it is about the future of the GOP. The author describes where their strengths and weaknesses lie. This is a well researched, fact based book about some of the most likely contenders to run for President in 2024. I would recommend it to anyone interested in the Republican 2024 presidential race. Thanks to NetGalley and Twelve Books publisher for giving me the chance to read this ARC.
December 1, 2021
While so many of the current crop of books on US politics are rear-view mirrors, Drucker provides a thoughtful, forward-looking view of how Donald Trump is impacting the future of the GOP - the future being those who aspire to shape it, including Senators Tom Cotton, Ted Cruz, and Marco Rubio, former Rep Will Hurd, former VP Mike Pence, former Ambassador/Governor Nikki Haley and yes, even Trump himself. Having started this in the waning weeks of the VA gubernatorial race, Drucker likely will need to add a chapter to the paperback edition.
This is very much an insider’s insider look - and thus, a must read for anyone who takes seriously both the future of American politics and even American governance.
This is very much an insider’s insider look - and thus, a must read for anyone who takes seriously both the future of American politics and even American governance.
December 18, 2021
Certainly a good deal of thought went into how and what Drucker would write about the potential successors to the Trump era; however, I suspect it is a bit early to be looking for "the Donald" in one's rear view mirror. He has expressed rather clearly that he would like to do it again. Each of his potential successors, whether within the Trump family, or without, have unique characteristics that might encourage or preclude their running to replace him. I suspect there will be other, better, books written in the next 24 months that cover the same ground with more currency.
May 26, 2022
Interesting look at possible Republican presidential candidates in 2024, from Nikki Haley and Ted Cruz (my favorites) to Tom Cotton and Mike Pompeo. He even has a chapter about Trump, but I (like the author) hope Trump chooses not to run again. Trump pushed great policies while in office and I appreciate the good he did: peace deals with Israel, low unemployment, protecting the unborn, low gas prices, keeping Putin at bay, no new wars, supported police, etc. But it’s time for a less-polarizing leader.
January 2, 2022
I had the opportunity to interview the author on a television program and wanted to make sure I’d read the book first! It’s a good read and shows the author’s depth of sourcing, even though many are anonymous (which he addresses directly.) It’s about people mulling presidential runs, obviously, but I think you’ll find some general insight about the forces pulling at the Republican Party and political insight baked in. And, our interview went well — he’s a great conversationalist!
April 21, 2022
A reference for who the contenders for the Republican presidential slot in the 2024 elections are. A few of who I consider strong contenders are, unfortunately, only found of brief comments. To be fair, the author was relating each contender with their relation to Mr. Trump. My other contenders may not have as much to comment on in this regard. Otherwise, this book is worth a look to prepare yourself for what is coming.
November 14, 2021
There are a few solid points to the rundown of Republican characters but mostly this is a bunch of repetitive drivel. Very liberal slant but oh well. When I say repetitive I mean seriously get ready to hear over and over the word “insurrection” and all the liberal lies that go with it. I would say skip this one if u can’t get it for free at the library.
July 9, 2022
Washington Examiner reporter David Drucker set out last year to examine who the contenders for the GOP Presidential race could be. As of fall 2021 when the book was published, the field seems to be pretty crowded, notwithstanding a potential run from the 45th President himself. Objectively reported with numerous first-hand interviews. A fast read!
February 3, 2022
Interesting read outlining the people who may run for the 2024 presidential election from the Republican Party. No surprises here, the favored guy is the loser from 2020.
April 20, 2022
lost interest
Bios of the potential Republican field in 2024. This book could have been shortened by 50%. 50 page chapters on each possibility. You got the point at 10 pages.
Bios of the potential Republican field in 2024. This book could have been shortened by 50%. 50 page chapters on each possibility. You got the point at 10 pages.
July 30, 2022
Basically a compilation of wikipedia articles on a handful of the contenders for the 2024 Republican presidential nominee. Likely not worth your time.
September 16, 2022
Good book about the possible GOP field in the upcoming '24 election. A little dry but that's a welcome change with all the inflammatory rhetoric in American politics.
April 9, 2022
I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley and I was excited to read it, thinking it would give me a greater understanding of the Republican party, and perhaps if I’d been able to finish it, it would have. Alas, I will never know.
I’m embarrassed to say, I managed to read the first chapter and then decided I could not read the rest without becoming completely disgusted. I think the part that clinched my opinion was when Drucker listed Trump’s accomplishments. I’d always wondered what his supporters considered his “many” accomplishments, but I think finding out is worse than not knowing.
“Incidentally, Trump’s accomplishments in the White House, and commitment to his campaign promises, are an underappreciated facet of the fanatical support he has enjoyed inside the party…” He then goes on to list his accomplishments which only served to transport me back to the past and the anger and frustration I felt with each of his “accomplishments.” The tax code, which favors the rich (like himself). The construction of a wall at the Southern border, a border based on fear-mongering, which sometimes ran through peoples’ properties and divided wildlife passages, and was hotly contested by many who live along the border. Moving the US embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, effectively giving the middle finger to every religion not Jewish or Christian. Withdrawing from the Iran nuclear deal, thereby providing Iran with the opportunity to pursue their nuclear program unimpeded and unobserved. Withdrawing from the Paris climate accords, something that had provided hope to those of us who are extremely concerned about the lack of movement toward developing a solution to the damage we continue to do to the earth. Appointed hundreds of conservatives to the federal judiciary, something which Mitch McConnell’s machinations made possible and which threatens to force us back to a time before equality for women and civil rights.
And then there’s Operation Warp Speed, for which I would like to give him credit, except for the fact that he tossed Obama-era pandemic protocols, which could have hampered the initial spread, and did not develop any infrastructure for the distribution of said vaccines. This is not to mention some of the most egregious actions of his administration, including ignoring the potential severity of the disease for fear it would adversely affect his reelection, delegating responsibility to individual states to secure PPE, forcing them to bid against one another to drive up the prices, and allowing his son-in-law, Mr. "The notion of the federal stockpile is that it's supposed to be our stockpile. It's not supposed to be states' stockpiles that they then use," in clear violation of anti-nepotism guidelines, to oversee the distribution of federal resources. Then there was the Covid Relief Fund which Congress specified should be protected from Mr. Trump and his cronies, but which he and his cronies immediately commandeered and raided for their own benefit.
I thought this book might help me to understand some of the Republicans in my life, but after reading one chapter, I realize it might be better if I don’t because I want to hold onto what little respect for them that I have left. I’m giving this book three stars because it’s not terribly written, even if the subject matter is repulsive to me and I found it was slightly biased toward the Republican party. It’s better than if it were written by someone opposed to the party, but the positive spin placed on negative actions/beliefs/whatever was too much for me to tolerate. I was expecting more of an expose-style narrative regarding Trump’s influence on the Republican party, but this seemed more like a blueprint for their success in coming elections. It may be well-written, but I cannot read enough to ascertain whether that’s the case.
I’m embarrassed to say, I managed to read the first chapter and then decided I could not read the rest without becoming completely disgusted. I think the part that clinched my opinion was when Drucker listed Trump’s accomplishments. I’d always wondered what his supporters considered his “many” accomplishments, but I think finding out is worse than not knowing.
“Incidentally, Trump’s accomplishments in the White House, and commitment to his campaign promises, are an underappreciated facet of the fanatical support he has enjoyed inside the party…” He then goes on to list his accomplishments which only served to transport me back to the past and the anger and frustration I felt with each of his “accomplishments.” The tax code, which favors the rich (like himself). The construction of a wall at the Southern border, a border based on fear-mongering, which sometimes ran through peoples’ properties and divided wildlife passages, and was hotly contested by many who live along the border. Moving the US embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, effectively giving the middle finger to every religion not Jewish or Christian. Withdrawing from the Iran nuclear deal, thereby providing Iran with the opportunity to pursue their nuclear program unimpeded and unobserved. Withdrawing from the Paris climate accords, something that had provided hope to those of us who are extremely concerned about the lack of movement toward developing a solution to the damage we continue to do to the earth. Appointed hundreds of conservatives to the federal judiciary, something which Mitch McConnell’s machinations made possible and which threatens to force us back to a time before equality for women and civil rights.
And then there’s Operation Warp Speed, for which I would like to give him credit, except for the fact that he tossed Obama-era pandemic protocols, which could have hampered the initial spread, and did not develop any infrastructure for the distribution of said vaccines. This is not to mention some of the most egregious actions of his administration, including ignoring the potential severity of the disease for fear it would adversely affect his reelection, delegating responsibility to individual states to secure PPE, forcing them to bid against one another to drive up the prices, and allowing his son-in-law, Mr. "The notion of the federal stockpile is that it's supposed to be our stockpile. It's not supposed to be states' stockpiles that they then use," in clear violation of anti-nepotism guidelines, to oversee the distribution of federal resources. Then there was the Covid Relief Fund which Congress specified should be protected from Mr. Trump and his cronies, but which he and his cronies immediately commandeered and raided for their own benefit.
I thought this book might help me to understand some of the Republicans in my life, but after reading one chapter, I realize it might be better if I don’t because I want to hold onto what little respect for them that I have left. I’m giving this book three stars because it’s not terribly written, even if the subject matter is repulsive to me and I found it was slightly biased toward the Republican party. It’s better than if it were written by someone opposed to the party, but the positive spin placed on negative actions/beliefs/whatever was too much for me to tolerate. I was expecting more of an expose-style narrative regarding Trump’s influence on the Republican party, but this seemed more like a blueprint for their success in coming elections. It may be well-written, but I cannot read enough to ascertain whether that’s the case.
December 26, 2021
I actually enjoyed reading this. Usually political books are dry reads, especially books about Trump and the modern day ReTrumplican party but this one was a well researched book about some of the most logical contenders to possibly run for President in 2024 should Trump himself decide not to run. After reading about the contenders, I have a much more positive outlook for the Republican Party. I’m an Independent voter and usually vote for a persons policies and not the person themself but after Trump’s total and complete lack of integrity and moral character, I no longer separate the two. This book chooses the candidates that have a chance in 2024 and outlines their bios, campaign style, issues and their support (or lack of) of Trump and his methods. He writes about Tom Cotton, Marco Rubio, Larry Hogan, Ted Cruz, Mike Pompeo, Mike Pence and Nikki Haley. He also discusses the Never Trumpers. Overall, I liked this book and the writing style of the author. I would recommend it to anyone interested in the Republican 2024 presidential nominee selection. My only complaint is that in each section the author jumps foreword and backwards in time during the 2016 campaign and the 2020 campaign and so at times the narrative wasn’t smooth but that is a minor glitch. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
January 17, 2022
This is a well-done piece of reporting on the network of likely 2024 contenders for the Republican nomination. The book gives a good picture of the behind-the-scenes maneuvering, networking, and personalities involved in the race to replace (hopefully) Trump at the top of the Republican Party.
I took two major points away from this book. First, the all too common assumption on the part of many that everyone right-of-center is necessarily on board with President Trump is obviously false. Virtually every established Republican operator is--whether they'll admit it or not--not a fan of the former president's style, lack of respect for tradition, and disregard for the established "rules".
A second takeaway is that Mike Pence is, above all, a patriot and the nation owes him its gratitude and respect.
Finally, if I had to summarize the overall point of this book, it would be this: the Republican Party is not Trump, even if politics, for now, demands that everyone make pretend. Whatever else, it should make you hopeful about the future of the Republican Party. Now, if only a similar story could be told about the Democrats.
I took two major points away from this book. First, the all too common assumption on the part of many that everyone right-of-center is necessarily on board with President Trump is obviously false. Virtually every established Republican operator is--whether they'll admit it or not--not a fan of the former president's style, lack of respect for tradition, and disregard for the established "rules".
A second takeaway is that Mike Pence is, above all, a patriot and the nation owes him its gratitude and respect.
Finally, if I had to summarize the overall point of this book, it would be this: the Republican Party is not Trump, even if politics, for now, demands that everyone make pretend. Whatever else, it should make you hopeful about the future of the Republican Party. Now, if only a similar story could be told about the Democrats.
October 15, 2021
This book was received as an ARC from Hachette Book Group – Twelve in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
At first I was not thrilled to read this book since all I have been hearing is politics and scheming since the COVID-19 Pandemic. However, David M. Drucker provides insight on points that I would never even thought to consider and even the sources he mentioned provided powerful explanations that did put me into deep thought. The election no question, will sure be one for the record books no matter who will be the nomination. The race will be intense and the American people regardless will be in for quite the ride. As a librarian, I have to be open to all sources and provide all the necessary access for people who have a need for it. I definitely do have a group of patrons who will have an interest in this book.
We will consider adding this title to our Non-Fiction collection at our library. That is why we give this book 4 stars.
At first I was not thrilled to read this book since all I have been hearing is politics and scheming since the COVID-19 Pandemic. However, David M. Drucker provides insight on points that I would never even thought to consider and even the sources he mentioned provided powerful explanations that did put me into deep thought. The election no question, will sure be one for the record books no matter who will be the nomination. The race will be intense and the American people regardless will be in for quite the ride. As a librarian, I have to be open to all sources and provide all the necessary access for people who have a need for it. I definitely do have a group of patrons who will have an interest in this book.
We will consider adding this title to our Non-Fiction collection at our library. That is why we give this book 4 stars.
October 1, 2021
Drucker is a well-informed, savvy political analyst and reporter, particularly with respect to GOP politics. The book is a good primer on the state of the GOP after Trump and the challenges it faces as 2024 approaches. Definitely recommended for any political junkie looking for their next reading fix.
May 1, 2022
A fantastic book about probable 2024 presidential candidates IF Donald Trump decides not to run. If you like “What it takes” by Richard Ben Cramer, Drucker captures a modern day story telling style that gives the reader incredible insight into the personalities of likely contenders. Definitely worth the read. I only wish the book were longer!!
March 28, 2023
The book had relevant insight into the future of the GOP, but the message was overshadowed by the punctuation and grammar mistakes throughout the book. Specifically, the misuse of commas (over usage) was a major distraction. Druker needs to brush up on his punctuation skills, and Grand Central Publishing should fire the proofreader.
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