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Courage and Consequence: My Life as a Conservative in the Fight
From the moment he set foot on it, Karl Rove has rocked America’s political stage. He ran the national College Republicans at twenty-two, and turned a Texas dominated by Democrats into a bastion for Republicans. He launched George W. Bush to national renown by unseating a popular Democratic governor, and then orchestrated a GOP White House win. For engineering victory after unlikely victory, Rove became known as “the Architect.”
Because of his success, Rove has been attacked his entire career, accused of everything from campaign chicanery to ideological divisiveness. In this frank memoir, Rove responds to critics, passionately articulates his political philosophy, and defends the choices he made on the campaign trail and in the White House. In the course of putting the record straight, Rove takes on Democratic leaders like Harry Reid and Tom Daschle who acted cynically or deviously behind closed doors, and even Republicans who lacked backbone at crucial moments.
Among other controversial topics Rove addresses, he sets the record straight on:
The facts of his mother’s suicide and reports of his father’s alleged homosexuality The accusation that he bugged his own office in Texas The real story of how George W. Bush defeated governor Ann Richards The details of Bush’s stealth campaign to win the White House in 2000 Why Bush cratered in New Hampshire but prevailed in South Carolina in 2000 How Bush chose Dick Cheney as his presidential running mate How the Bush campaign managed Bush’s DUI The defection of Vermont Senator Jim Jeffords The frustrating challenges of Hurricane Katrina The facts behind Rove’s painful three years fending off a federal indictment, and Why Obama is wrong on healthcare.
Courage and Consequence is also the first intimate account from the highest level at the White House of one of the most headline-making presidencies of the modern age. Rove takes readers behind the scenes of:
The bitterly contested 2000 presidential contest Every tense minute aboard Air Force One on 9/11 The decision to go to war in Afghanistan and Iraq, and The hard-won 2004 reelection fight.
Rove is candid about his mistakes in the West Wing and in his campaigns, and talks frankly about the heartbreak of his early family years. He spells out what it takes to win elections and how to govern successfully once a candidate has won. But Courage and Consequence is ultimately about the joy of a life committed to the conservative cause, a life spent in political combat and service to country, no matter the costs.
567 pages, Hardcover
First published March 9, 2010
82 people are currently reading
1134 people want to read
About the author
Karl Rove
11 books155 followersKarl Christian Rove was Senior Advisor and Deputy Chief of Staff to former President George W. Bush until his resignation on August 31, 2007. He has headed the Office of Political Affairs, the Office of Public Liaison, and the White House Office of Strategic Initiatives. Since leaving the White House, Rove has worked as a political analyst and contributor for Fox News, Newsweek and The Wall Street Journal.
Prior to his White House appointments, Rove was a Republican political consultant and strategist. Rove is credited with the successful 1994 and 1998 Texas gubernatorial victories of George W. Bush, as well as Bush's 2000 and 2004 successful presidential campaigns. Rove has also been credited for the successful campaigns of John Ashcroft (1994 U.S. Senate election), Bill Clements (1986 Texas gubernatorial election), Senator John Cornyn (2002 U.S. Senate election), Governor Rick Perry (1990 Texas Agriculture Commission election), and Phil Gramm (1982 U.S. House and 1984 U.S. Senate elections).
Rove's name has come up in a number of political scandals, including the Valerie Plame affair, the Bush White House e-mail controversy and the related dismissal of U.S. attorneys controversy.
Prior to his White House appointments, Rove was a Republican political consultant and strategist. Rove is credited with the successful 1994 and 1998 Texas gubernatorial victories of George W. Bush, as well as Bush's 2000 and 2004 successful presidential campaigns. Rove has also been credited for the successful campaigns of John Ashcroft (1994 U.S. Senate election), Bill Clements (1986 Texas gubernatorial election), Senator John Cornyn (2002 U.S. Senate election), Governor Rick Perry (1990 Texas Agriculture Commission election), and Phil Gramm (1982 U.S. House and 1984 U.S. Senate elections).
Rove's name has come up in a number of political scandals, including the Valerie Plame affair, the Bush White House e-mail controversy and the related dismissal of U.S. attorneys controversy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
April 30, 2010
As a daily newspaper reader I am frustrated that it is impossible to get an unbiased commentary of the news by the media. Rove's book was so interesting and explained many of the incidents I had seen splashed in the news, including 9/11, the war in Iraq, Katrina, and people including John Kerry and the Wilson-Plames. I contend that George W. Bush was an excellent president. I wish I would have known the inner-workings of the White House during his presidency so I could have countered the 100% negative comments I heard from non-Americans in my travels. Yes, there is a lot of corruptness and large egos in politics, but I am certain there are also people with high ideals and yes, even integrity. I love America!
June 18, 2010
If you hate George W. Bush and are content to hate him based on erroneous and biased reporting, DO NOT READ THIS BOOK! Karl Rove was there from the beginning. He explains all that happened in a reasoned way. He gives the explanations that were not forthcoming from the president at the time. Unlike our current president W. felt that it was beneath the dignity of the office of president to get in a spitting contest with every critic on the public airways.
Rove admits there were mistakes. He does however strongly defend the choices that ended up with war in Iraq, including reminding the short memories of those who forgot all those who agreed with Bush when the choice was made.
He explains Katrina and the way decisions were made and not made. For example, in Mississippi and Alabama, two states that had capable leadership in place, the help from FEMA was excellent. Rove explains the battle between the Mayor of New Orleans and the Governor of Louisana and how that affected the help the Feds could offer. Unknown to many, FEMA couldn't just take over. They either had to be invited to do so by the governor, who wouldn't give the invitation, or by declaring Louisana in a state of insurrection which Bush was hesitant to do.
He explains the 2000 election dispute with Gore. He reminds us that when the count was in Bush won. When the recounted Bush won. When the Florida supreme court went against Florida law and called another recount, Bush won. The supreme court of the US voted 9-0 that the Florida Supreme Court overstepped its bounds. In a second vote it voted in favor of Bush 7-2. In the third vote,it voted in favor of Bush 7-2. And finally the vote to stop all the recounting, was 5-4.
Later after all the votes were in, all the chads as far as possible examined, it was decided that Bush won the election. So why are there still those that say Bush cheated to win? Because they hate George Bush and they want to believe that.
This is a great look at inside the Bush whitehouse, by someone who was there. Read it. I highly recommend it.
Rove admits there were mistakes. He does however strongly defend the choices that ended up with war in Iraq, including reminding the short memories of those who forgot all those who agreed with Bush when the choice was made.
He explains Katrina and the way decisions were made and not made. For example, in Mississippi and Alabama, two states that had capable leadership in place, the help from FEMA was excellent. Rove explains the battle between the Mayor of New Orleans and the Governor of Louisana and how that affected the help the Feds could offer. Unknown to many, FEMA couldn't just take over. They either had to be invited to do so by the governor, who wouldn't give the invitation, or by declaring Louisana in a state of insurrection which Bush was hesitant to do.
He explains the 2000 election dispute with Gore. He reminds us that when the count was in Bush won. When the recounted Bush won. When the Florida supreme court went against Florida law and called another recount, Bush won. The supreme court of the US voted 9-0 that the Florida Supreme Court overstepped its bounds. In a second vote it voted in favor of Bush 7-2. In the third vote,it voted in favor of Bush 7-2. And finally the vote to stop all the recounting, was 5-4.
Later after all the votes were in, all the chads as far as possible examined, it was decided that Bush won the election. So why are there still those that say Bush cheated to win? Because they hate George Bush and they want to believe that.
This is a great look at inside the Bush whitehouse, by someone who was there. Read it. I highly recommend it.
April 7, 2010
I define myself as an independent, but in reality I'm a fiscal conservative and somewhat left of center socially. I've always been intrigued by the enigma of Karl Rove that the press has created. This book unveiled a surprisingly compassionate and vulnerable side of the architect behind George W. Bush. His stories are engaging and his behind the scenes look at the harsh realities of a world Bush was elected to govern within. It showed an all new low for politicians, leaving rationale behind for reelections; and an all new high for humanity, sincerely embracing those grieving, in fear, and looking for hope. I will never forget Rove’s last act in the White House. That moment and the family he helped will remain in my heart forever. Whatever your politics, liberal or conservative, compassion can still be found if you look for it.
Want to read
June 9, 2014Favorite Neocon anecdotes ? How to deceive the other kids on the playground, as penned by a master of the Lying Arts & Sciences ? How to service the Military Industrial Complex by a grateful proxy, wannabe-bully and chubby machiavelli-junior ?
Seriously ??
This sleazy little man constructed the advance guard of lies behind which a fraudulent and mind-numbingly incoherent administration attempted to take America back to the 18th century.
And that managed to take America to war with the world.
Read this ? Buy this ??
Given the choice I'd read the Phone Book first.
April 15, 2010
For anyone interested in contemporary politics this is a must read. Like all such books written by participants in events, this book is a look at the motivations and justifications for their actions. As an inside look, especially of the 2000 and 2004 elections, it gives the reader a perspective that is invaluable. One does not have to agree with the politics, it is the insight into decision making that makes it worth the read. All but the most rigid ideologue will be enlightened about the process of political decision making. But then, ideologues, by definition, cannot be enlightened.
Want to read
November 7, 2012Fun read so far. "The architect" is one of my favorite political figures ever. If he were even half as wicked as the press would have us believe he'd still be a jillion times more awesome than he needs to be.
January 9, 2013
Karl Rove is one of the best-known and controversial names in American politics today. He was George W. Bush’s chief campaign adviser, which has earned him a very high praise of being called “The Architect” by the president. However, due to Bush’s own unpopularity this success has garnered Rove more than a fair share of animosity and hatred from the Left and their sympathizers. This speaks volumes about the times that we live in, and unfortunately this level of acrimony has only increased in recent years.
In “Courage and Consequence” Karl Rove sets out to give a very personal account of his life and political career. This book is more about the latter, although this is no political manifesto or a policy screed. Even though Rove shows his mastery of the political process, and provides the reader with valuable insights and commentaries about the policies and historic events that he was a part of, this book is also not a user manual on running a political campaign. It is indeed a very personal story and even a touching one on many an occasion. The events of 9/11 and its aftermath particularly stand out in their poignancy. It was really emotionally hard to go through those events again more than a decade later, and remember all the horror and sadness that they elicited. This is particularly true of the account form a front seat to the presidency of the United States and all that entailed.
A particularly heart-wrenching part of the book was the one that dealt with the Valerie Plame affair. Rove was embroiled into this controversy purely out of the guilt by association, and without a shred of even circumstantial evidence. It unfortunately led to him being investigated by a special prosecutor and grand jury, a process that lasted fro years and drained him and his family emotionally and financially. The later admissions by other actors in the affair clearly vindicated him and all the assertions that he had been making all along, but unfortunately to this day his name is slung though the mud and vilified on account of this affair more than almost everything else. It is a sad reminder of the dire consequences that any person can go though if they find themselves in the media crosshairs, no matter how supposedly “powerful” they may be. It also puts a huge freeze on anyone’s desire to enter politics. The amount of harassment and humiliation that career entails doesn’t seem to be worth the price.
I’ve had a privilege to hear Karl Rove speak on a couple of occasions. I also watch his political commentary quite regularly, and almost never miss his weekly column in the Wall Street Journal. He has always struck me as a courteous, civil, and immensely affable man – the exact opposite of the caricature that has become popular in the media. He is also immensely knowledgeable and insightful about all aspects of the political process, and he has a unique gift of communicating those insights to the general public. All of these traits are come across quite clearly in “Courage and Consequence.” In another life Rove would have made a great politician own his own right, but what he has accomplished has clearly put him in the highest realms of public servants. This book is his apologia and a testament to the vision that he promoted. It is a great way to learn about some of the most important events in recent history.
In “Courage and Consequence” Karl Rove sets out to give a very personal account of his life and political career. This book is more about the latter, although this is no political manifesto or a policy screed. Even though Rove shows his mastery of the political process, and provides the reader with valuable insights and commentaries about the policies and historic events that he was a part of, this book is also not a user manual on running a political campaign. It is indeed a very personal story and even a touching one on many an occasion. The events of 9/11 and its aftermath particularly stand out in their poignancy. It was really emotionally hard to go through those events again more than a decade later, and remember all the horror and sadness that they elicited. This is particularly true of the account form a front seat to the presidency of the United States and all that entailed.
A particularly heart-wrenching part of the book was the one that dealt with the Valerie Plame affair. Rove was embroiled into this controversy purely out of the guilt by association, and without a shred of even circumstantial evidence. It unfortunately led to him being investigated by a special prosecutor and grand jury, a process that lasted fro years and drained him and his family emotionally and financially. The later admissions by other actors in the affair clearly vindicated him and all the assertions that he had been making all along, but unfortunately to this day his name is slung though the mud and vilified on account of this affair more than almost everything else. It is a sad reminder of the dire consequences that any person can go though if they find themselves in the media crosshairs, no matter how supposedly “powerful” they may be. It also puts a huge freeze on anyone’s desire to enter politics. The amount of harassment and humiliation that career entails doesn’t seem to be worth the price.
I’ve had a privilege to hear Karl Rove speak on a couple of occasions. I also watch his political commentary quite regularly, and almost never miss his weekly column in the Wall Street Journal. He has always struck me as a courteous, civil, and immensely affable man – the exact opposite of the caricature that has become popular in the media. He is also immensely knowledgeable and insightful about all aspects of the political process, and he has a unique gift of communicating those insights to the general public. All of these traits are come across quite clearly in “Courage and Consequence.” In another life Rove would have made a great politician own his own right, but what he has accomplished has clearly put him in the highest realms of public servants. This book is his apologia and a testament to the vision that he promoted. It is a great way to learn about some of the most important events in recent history.
July 24, 2010
Satan himself writes his memoirs, and if you believe that you've been watching too much disinformation on the network news. Rove is a modest man who has done and seen remarkable things, and his tale is worth reading.
His beginnings were modest - a periphratic "Man From Hope"-style childhood following his geologist father across the western United States. Rove's parents were marginal types, and emotionally troubled as well (something Rove's cruder critics have been happy to exploit). Rove reacted to this by becoming a workaholic and obsessive student. His skills as a political operator - Rove was a big wheel in the College Republicans - brought him early attention from Bush 41, which pretty much made Rove's career.
Once in Texas, Rove opened a direct mail company and began working on GOP campaigns. Half of this 500+ page book is dedicated to Rove's campaign work, and no wonder. Whatever you might think of Rove, he is a brilliant political operative with an encyclopedic knowledge of the United States that extends down to the precinct level. Rove also has an intuitive grasp of how voters behave, and how to calibrate political gestures to better win elections. His descriptions of the 2000 and 2004 campaigns are exciting and filled with drama.
Once in the White House, Rove must deal with a lot more tragedy than triumph. 9/11, the Iraq War, Hurricane Katrina, etc. Rove admits to failing to grasp how the Bush Administration's struggles in war and disaster caused them to become vulnerable to political attack and expresses regret that he didn't make more of an effort to fight back against "torture" Democrats. Yeah, no sh**, Sherlock. Rove also expends a lot of pages on the Plame-Wilson affair, which was one of the great cocked-up criminal investigations.
If you are a political junkie, this is a must-read, as Rove is one of the central political figures from the last 15 years.
His beginnings were modest - a periphratic "Man From Hope"-style childhood following his geologist father across the western United States. Rove's parents were marginal types, and emotionally troubled as well (something Rove's cruder critics have been happy to exploit). Rove reacted to this by becoming a workaholic and obsessive student. His skills as a political operator - Rove was a big wheel in the College Republicans - brought him early attention from Bush 41, which pretty much made Rove's career.
Once in Texas, Rove opened a direct mail company and began working on GOP campaigns. Half of this 500+ page book is dedicated to Rove's campaign work, and no wonder. Whatever you might think of Rove, he is a brilliant political operative with an encyclopedic knowledge of the United States that extends down to the precinct level. Rove also has an intuitive grasp of how voters behave, and how to calibrate political gestures to better win elections. His descriptions of the 2000 and 2004 campaigns are exciting and filled with drama.
Once in the White House, Rove must deal with a lot more tragedy than triumph. 9/11, the Iraq War, Hurricane Katrina, etc. Rove admits to failing to grasp how the Bush Administration's struggles in war and disaster caused them to become vulnerable to political attack and expresses regret that he didn't make more of an effort to fight back against "torture" Democrats. Yeah, no sh**, Sherlock. Rove also expends a lot of pages on the Plame-Wilson affair, which was one of the great cocked-up criminal investigations.
If you are a political junkie, this is a must-read, as Rove is one of the central political figures from the last 15 years.
March 7, 2011
For those of us who spend too much of our free time on politics, you will be entertained regardless of which side of the isle you line up on. This is a surprisingly good read. I learned a lot about campaigning, the white house, and came away with a new respect for Pres. George Bush. Karl Rove is not a mythical figure with his hands in everything political, but a smart guy who loves politics, and tried his best to promote the ideas and candidates he believes in. Although Karl is defensive about a few things, he admits mistakes, and weaknesses. The love for his family and his country that he expresses, and his very humble upbringing humanize him more than I expected.
I have enjoyed Rove's writing style and his ideas expressed the last year or two in his WSJ editorials. After listening to him speak live last month, I wanted to read the book, and I have to admit that reading the book, I am much more of a fan of Karl Rove than I was previously.
I have enjoyed Rove's writing style and his ideas expressed the last year or two in his WSJ editorials. After listening to him speak live last month, I wanted to read the book, and I have to admit that reading the book, I am much more of a fan of Karl Rove than I was previously.
November 5, 2014
Sometimes you have to hold your nose when you read a book.
Rather than an autobiography, this book is more about praising George W. Bush and criticizing Barack Obama: a true political diatribe about how noble Republicans are while demonizing Democrats.
I consider myself neither a Republican nor a Democrat, and I will let history determine which man was the better president. However, Rove plays footsie with the facts, making broad assertions without giving supporting evidence and carefully (prudently) omitting facts. If you did not live through the events he describes (from 9/11 for which we were totally unprepared to Hurricane Katrina which we were slow to respond to an unnecessary and foolish war - Iraq - to the sub prime housing bust of 2008), you would find his arguments quite convincing.
And who was our President during this time period?
For the political scientist, Rove reveals interesting perspectives on fund raising and political campaigning.
Rather than an autobiography, this book is more about praising George W. Bush and criticizing Barack Obama: a true political diatribe about how noble Republicans are while demonizing Democrats.
I consider myself neither a Republican nor a Democrat, and I will let history determine which man was the better president. However, Rove plays footsie with the facts, making broad assertions without giving supporting evidence and carefully (prudently) omitting facts. If you did not live through the events he describes (from 9/11 for which we were totally unprepared to Hurricane Katrina which we were slow to respond to an unnecessary and foolish war - Iraq - to the sub prime housing bust of 2008), you would find his arguments quite convincing.
And who was our President during this time period?
For the political scientist, Rove reveals interesting perspectives on fund raising and political campaigning.
September 22, 2010
The Iraq war, the Afghanistan war, Valerie Pflame and Katerina were all interesting chapters of Karl Rove's memoirs. Bush was an intelligent man who graduated from Harvard Business school, ran a successful oil business, owned a baseball team and served two terms as Texas governer.
Karl Rove was with him from the start of his political career. What is clear from Rove's book is the hypocracy in politics and the ability of the media in this country to be control and manipulated in reporting thing that are not true and ultimately have the ability to destroy people. A book that those on both sides of the aisle should read to better understand this period of our history.
Karl Rove was with him from the start of his political career. What is clear from Rove's book is the hypocracy in politics and the ability of the media in this country to be control and manipulated in reporting thing that are not true and ultimately have the ability to destroy people. A book that those on both sides of the aisle should read to better understand this period of our history.
April 24, 2010
Great insight into the Bush administration. I'm a libertarian, so there were a number of things in the past administration that I didn't like. But this book, in addition to being a very well written and compelling read, gave enough background into the issues to cause me to reflect on a number of things. The bit in the book about the Plames is worth the price of admission alone...
August 8, 2010
Maligned in the media as the evil mind behind the Bush administration, Karl Rove's side of the story sheds light on what what was really happening during the Bush years.
July 29, 2017
I read this to better understand someone I disliked as a politician - the book did not help.
October 8, 2013
In 2010, Karl Rove published his 520 page autobiography Courage and Consequences: My Life as a Conservative in the Fight.
Parts 1 and 2 detail his early life and offer some campaign tips and observations. Part 3 is a partisan telling of Rove's GW Bush years.
Rove is the preeminent Republican election strategist of his generation. Rove’s election successes are notable: including Republican primaries, Rove’s side won more than 80% of the electorial contests. Rove’s crowning achievements were directing George W. Bush’s two Presidential campaigns. Whether Rove’s successes winning election campaigns were good for the Country is another question. Rove remains very influential. He currently directs American Crossroads, a Republican lobbying PAC boasting revenue exceeding $200 million per year.
Like most autobiographies, Rove extols his successes and omits or minimizes failures. A partisan Republican by age 9, Rove delights in bashing his adversaries.
Karl Rove was born on December 25, 1950. In 2010, then 60 year old Rove published a 520 page autobiography, Courage and Consequence: My Life as Conservative in the Fight.
Rove describes himself as very, very competitive, loving to win, hating to lose. He has been very successful. Rove believes all his acts show courage. He defines courage as Rove winning.
There is a Chinese saying: “Many those consider heroes are actually folk who will save their horse or 2nd best mistress even if it costs the entire world.” It seems to apply well to Rove.
In addition to a self centered definition of courage, despite the book's title, Rove ignores consequences. For example, Rove devotes 3 pages to the Afghanistan War, which according to Rove, ended in rousing success in 2001. (Chapter 18, pages 285-287). Rove devotes more time to bragging about his pranks. (Chapter 32 Yes it was Fun 485-493.)
Rove's book is divided into three parts: Rove’s early years; How Rove runs campaigns and some insights into the election process; and Rove’s years with George W. Bush.
The second part is very good, containing insights of a generational election specialist talent. Whatever his ethics, Rove is extremely successful.
1. Rove’s early years
Rove comes from a broken family. Rove explains that his biological Father abandoned Rove’s family to live with another man. Rove became a Republican partisan by age 9, when he was a big Richard Nixon fan.
Rove does not discuss any religious beliefs. His high school years were spent in Utah at a 90% Mormon school. An already committed partisan, Rove loved Milton Friedman's right wing platitudes and gives no indication he placed them under any critical scrutiny.
In his early years, Rove proved an energetic talented debater. He entered politics in high school. He quickly rose to prominence. In 1969, Senator Ralph Smith hired Rove to work on his campaign. Smith lost his election; Rove describes Smith as running a stupid campaign. Through that work, Rove made enough contacts to run for the College Republicans election.
“I was asked if I could fly standby to Washington, D.C. on a regular basis, work three or four days, and sleep on a mat on the floor of the current [CR} executive director. …the current executive director would probably take umbrage and I wouldn’t get paid. How could I pass up an offer like that?...Our bitter infighting soured the RNC on the College Republicans.” Chapter 2 King of the College Republicans, p 26-27.
Rove learned important lessons. His CR wins catapulted Rove to a high level within the Republican party ranks by age 20. Rove started a mail fund raiser company and quickly became a campaign runner. Rove ran for Congress and lost.
Rove’s first wife was from Houston. Studying demographics, Rove felt Texas would shift Republican. Rove left the University of Utah without receiving a degree and moved to Texas. He claims the move was for his Texas politically connected wife. Apparently, she was a work widow and soon divorced him. Rove remarried and one child, only briefly mentioned in Rove's autobiography. (Rove's 2nd wife divorced him and Rove has remarried in 2012.)
In addition to his direct mailing and fund raising business, Rove worked for various campaigns, both as fund raiser and as strategist. In the 1990’s, George H.W. Bush hired Rove to work on his Presidential campaign.
2. How Rove sees the World of Elections
“Being a college Republican [helped me learn] the power of new technologies to communicate our message. We saw that politics was not about power or status, but about ideas and ideals. To view it as about power was to treat it as a game, cynical and ultimately meaningless and cruel. But to understand it was about great principles was to understand that politics could be a hopeful and important exercise of our democratic experience.” Chapter 2, Page 33
Getting elected is mostly about power and status. Rove claims that the overall policy is important. But nowhere in his autobiography does he mention any study of policy, of what makes laws good or bad. Instead, Rove explains in detail how he was busy selling messages and winning campaigns; his main regard is whether campaign messages help his candidate win. One example:
“In 1999 and early 2000, I became convinced that George W Bush could win West Virginia, something others considered dubious [because WV had been heavily democrat for years]…. The State’s coal industry was under attack from the Clinton administration, many democratic voters were pro-life-, pro-prayer, and pro-gun even if they had voted democrat for decades.” Chap 4, Page 71
Rove characterizes regulation as placing “the industry under attack.” He has no discussion of whether he actually looked at or evaluated any regulation. No discussion of a general understanding of rules and why we have them. No discussion of whether allowing mines to function without or with relaxed safety standards is a good or bad thing. No discussion of whether he had evaluated the pollution levels, or cared whether the extraction industry’s opposition to pollution laws were justified or not. Similarly, Rove ignores the mine and worker safety regulations. Wage and hour laws. Rove claims no analysis of any facts.
Readers are familiar with the gun control arguments. Again, Rove makes no analysis or any pro's or con's for such rules. Ronald Reagan was the last person able to seriously push a Federal level gun control law; Clinton rode Reagan’s coattails to institute a assault rifle ban in 1994. Since then, gun control laws have been under harsh assault. Proponents don’t have the votes.
Rove's only concern is that a “They are coming to take your guns and then make you a slave” campaign sells easily, true or not.
As to prayer, we again lack any analysis of whether the Government promoting religion or superstition is good for anyone. The Constitution prohibits establishment of a State religion. Is undermining this rule good for the country? Rove does not care.
Good or bad policy arguments aside, there is another question. Rove has no religious background himself. So was Rove actually promoting religion or just manipulating an easily manipulated group to get them to vote Republican?
A GW Bush insider, David Kuo, detailed the Rove directed cynical manipulation of the religious right.
David Kuo was a well connected evangelical Christian. He helped GW Bush get elected by coordinating the religious right and was rewarded with a position as Special Assistant to President GW Bush and Deputy Director of the Office of Faith Based and Community Initiatives (FBCI). Kuo’s tell all book, Tempting Faith, was published in 2008.
Kuo claims that while others were nominally in charge, Rove actually directed multiple offices, including the FBCI and Political Affairs. After explaining how the Bush campaign relied heavily on the religious right to win the election, Kuo quotes promises from Bush’s inauguration speech to give Christians “an honored place in our plans and in our laws,” What actually happened? Kuo writes that upon joining the White House staff in January 2001:
“[Bush appointed Don Willet, a Texas lawyer not affiliated with the Evangelical movement, to run the new office of FBCI]. On a good day one plan after another was rejected. On most days [requests for a staff, budget, or plan] were simply ignored…..
“[Upon transition] Every other White House office was up and running. The Faith based Initiative still operated out of the nearly vacant transition offices.
“Three days later, a Tuesday, Karl Rove summoned Willet to his office to announce that the entire faith-based initiative would be rolled out the following Monday. Willet asked just how—without a director, staff, office, or plan—the President would do that. Rove just looked at him, took a deep breath, and said, “I don’t know. Just get me a f*%ing faith based thing. Got it?” Willet was shown the door.” Tempting Faith, Ch 9, pages 135-140.
Kuo later explains that the Bush Administration would glad hand the religious right leaders to their face. But privately referred to them as "nut jobs."
To bring this back to his successful West Virginia campaign, Rove's statements and actions show Rove's his main consideration is which advertising campaign worked best sell West Virginia voters--not good policy nor, as Kuo's account details, keeping campaign promises.
3. Dirty Tricks
There is some early footage of Rove discussing dirty tricks with another young Republican. At the time, Rove was one of those zealots who would be expected to actually do such tricks. Later, he would be the one who managed them (if they were done at all) not the spear thrower who would carry them out. For what it is worth, Rove claims his attempts at dirty tricks mostly failed so he left those behind.
Rove explains he likes to lure opponents into making unfounded charges. Then he squashes them.
“An important thing to remember [about attacks] is that a counterpunch is often stronger than an initial punch. That may mean a candidate tries to maneuver his opponent into striking the first blow on a topic.” Then he destroys the attacker with a pre-planned counterattack. (See Chapter 4, pages 76-77). (3rd parties report that sometimes Rove himself writes the original attack ads, falsely claims they are from the opponent, and then delivers the counter attack. He typically times this a week or two before the election, when there is no time for response.)
In 1970, Rove used a false identity to enter Democrat Alan J. Dixon's campaign office. Dixon was running for Illinois Treasurer. Rove stole 1000 sheets of Dixon's campaign letterhead, then printed fake campaign rally fliers promising "free beer, free food, girls and a good time for nothing." He had these fake fliers distributed at rock concerts and homeless shelters, with the effect of disrupting Dixon's rally. Dixon, however, won the election. In 1073, Rove bragged about his deed to the Dallas Morning News. His autobiography claims, "It was a youthful prank... and I regret it."
There is no record of Rove repaying the victim for Rove's theft. There is, however, evidence that the very rich conservatives want someone who cheats. This would explain why Rove admitted being a forger and a thief to a Dallas Newspaper. Rick Perlstein wrote an article for The Baffler discussing Republican mail fund raising techniques, providing a view quite different from Rove's and listing events eerily similar to Rove's theft and forgery in the Dixon election.
Rove does not mention it in his book. But in at least two of Rove's campaigns--Governor Richards Governorship of Texas and a Justice See's 1996 run for Associate Justice in Alabama--whisper campaigns started claiming Richards was a lesbian and See a pedophile. They are not one of us/they are dangerous seems to be common Rove campaign themes.
Excerpt from The Long Con: Mail-order conservatism by RICK PERLSTEIN
The Baffler November 21, 2012
"Once, I gave a speech to a marquee assemblage of true members of the conservative elite, from William Bennett to Midge Decter to Alf Regnery, at the James Madison Program in American Ideals and Institutions, a conservative think tank that rich donors convinced Princeton University to house under its auspices. (Karl Rove made a cameo appearance, during which he bragged about making a Republican congressman cry.)
"In my remarks, I laid out what I took to be a disturbing moral pattern, what I naively thought would stir these folks into something like shame. Why was it, I asked, that whenever Richard Nixon needed someone to brazen out some patently immoral, illegal, or dishonest act, he frequently and explicitly sought out a veteran of the conservative movement—the same conservatives whose ideology in policy contexts he usually derided? Because, I said, “Nixon knew that if you had a dirty job to get done, you got people who answered the description he made of E. Howard Hunt and G. Gordon Liddy: ‘good, healthy, right-wing exuberants.’”
"I gave half a dozen examples of latter-day conservative exuberance, in my own admitted exuberance to rain down the shame: the phony “middle of the road caucus” formed to secretly take over a National Student Association meeting from the right; the fliers the RNC put out during the 2004 election announcing that a President John Kerry would institute a plan to ban the Bible; the time Jerry Falwell lied that he’d never argued for the elimination of the public school system—“lying for the Lord,” as Mormons call it. Then, as the question-and-answer period approached, I trembled, anticipating the conservative elite’s chastened response. Yes, reader: I was once just that naive.
"M. Stanton Evans, a legendary movement godfather, stood up. He said my invocation of Richard Nixon was inappropriate because Richard Nixon had never been a conservative. He proceeded, though, to make a striking admission: “I didn’t like Nixon until Watergate”—at which point, apparently, Nixon finally convinced conservatives he could be one of them." http://www.thebaffler.com/...
While a bullet point for rich Republican donors, Rove does not tell the possibly fabricated Made a Republicans Congressman Cry story in his 520 page autobiography.
Rove describes another trick I think he and many Republicans use. In his early debate career, Rove explains how through great preparation he and his partner would find some little known fact written by someone. They would quote the conclusion and the source, then chortle condescendingly when their opponents proved they were not omniscient.
You still see Republicans using this trick--based on the fact people are not omniscient--when their “experts” get on national TV talk shows. They cite some obscure report and claim it shows their opponent incorrect and incompetent.
4. Elections and How Rove Wins Them
The best parts of the book, in my opinion, pertain to election tactics. Rove is no doubt a master. In chapters 1 through 5, Rove provides some explanation as to how he wins election campaigns.
First, he works extremely hard to obtain all the information he can. Although Rove denies any chicanery, it is curious how Rove repeatedly obtains secret inside information from within his adversary’s camp.
Second, he uses this to form a plan, using ideas to mask the underlying fight for space and control. Rove spins this into a self-aggrandizing statement. He claims he looks for the best ideas, not to win. But his results indicate the opposite conclusion. Rove tells no stories about how he supported the better candidate on principle (how could he as a right wing zealot?); rather, they focus on how and why people won or lost. Rove writes,
“A campaign’s essential argument must be easily understood, capable of being widely disseminated, backed by evidence, and authentic. [Even if negative, it should be framed in a positive way.]” Chapter 4, Page 66
One of Rove’s claims is that the Democrats moved so far left it was losing elections. But, as 3rd parties know, this is simply a message framing. The Republican party itself has shifted far right and the Democrats have followed, adopting many of the same programs espoused by Ronald Reagan. Rove ignores these shifts.
Third, Rove makes sure he is in complete charge of the campaign. Rove explains that without a “shot caller” who can plan strategy and control tactics, campaigns usually fail.
Fourth, Rove plans for contingencies and prepares responses. He assesses not only his candidate’s strengths and weaknesses but also his opponents. Then he crafts plans based on likely positions.
Fifth, Rove relies heavily technology and marketing research.
Sixth, Rove explains that a campaign must be carefully budgeted and planned. Rove emphasizes candidate discipline, both on message and in running the campaign.
Seventh, Rove emphasizes that attacks need to come from trusted sources—and who different groups trust varies considerably. He writes:
“[A]nother rule to keep in mind: People are inclined to disregard attacks whose source is either unknown or suspect. To be effective, an attack must be launched by someone with credibility and defended when [the target], the media, or credible third parties, or some combination launches a counterattack. A candidate must be willing to defend and stand behind his charge.” Ch 6, page 77.
In this regard, Rove has worked very hard to encourage his party to discredit anyone who has or might attack the Republican party. Thus, the cynical logic behind the constant barrage of advertisements and coordinated statements branding the so-called “biased liberal media” and the adjunct creation of an ever stronger right wing echo chamber.
5. The GW Bush Years
Rove describes a brilliant, humane administration dealing competently with massive emergencies. They are sometimes undone only by unaffiliated Republican bumblers and by the always inept, dishonest, nefarious Democrats. That's Roves view.
Is the writer an accurate Historian of the events they witnessed or summarized? Are all important facts—even the damaging ones—mentioned? Rove’s versions of events fails scrutiny. As the following examples show, Rove is not a credible historian. The three examples use first hand eyewitness statements by Berntsen, McClelland and Kuo, all dedicated, long time Republicans.
5.1 Afghanistan
C&C's introduction brags about how Rove informed GW Bush of the 9/11 attack and how masterful GW Bush was in response. Rove devotes 3 pages to the Afghanistan War itself. According to Rove, that war ended in 2001 with a rousing victory. The US went into Afghanistan to get Osama Bin Laden, who was being protected by the Taliban. The prior Afghan regime had been so corrupt its populace turned to the Taliban. While religious fanatics, apparently the Afghans initially thought the Taliban more honest than its predecessors.
In chapter 18, Striking Back, Rove describes the war on the Afghanistan Taliban. Bush wanted something done quickly. Shortly 9/11, special forces and CIA operatives hired Tajik tribesman (the Northern Alliance). Supported by the US air force, they invaded Afghanistan to fight the Taliban. Best information indicated Bin Laden was hiding in the Tora Bora fortress. (Continued at http://www.dailykos.com/story/2013/10...)
Parts 1 and 2 detail his early life and offer some campaign tips and observations. Part 3 is a partisan telling of Rove's GW Bush years.
Rove is the preeminent Republican election strategist of his generation. Rove’s election successes are notable: including Republican primaries, Rove’s side won more than 80% of the electorial contests. Rove’s crowning achievements were directing George W. Bush’s two Presidential campaigns. Whether Rove’s successes winning election campaigns were good for the Country is another question. Rove remains very influential. He currently directs American Crossroads, a Republican lobbying PAC boasting revenue exceeding $200 million per year.
Like most autobiographies, Rove extols his successes and omits or minimizes failures. A partisan Republican by age 9, Rove delights in bashing his adversaries.
Karl Rove was born on December 25, 1950. In 2010, then 60 year old Rove published a 520 page autobiography, Courage and Consequence: My Life as Conservative in the Fight.
Rove describes himself as very, very competitive, loving to win, hating to lose. He has been very successful. Rove believes all his acts show courage. He defines courage as Rove winning.
There is a Chinese saying: “Many those consider heroes are actually folk who will save their horse or 2nd best mistress even if it costs the entire world.” It seems to apply well to Rove.
In addition to a self centered definition of courage, despite the book's title, Rove ignores consequences. For example, Rove devotes 3 pages to the Afghanistan War, which according to Rove, ended in rousing success in 2001. (Chapter 18, pages 285-287). Rove devotes more time to bragging about his pranks. (Chapter 32 Yes it was Fun 485-493.)
Rove's book is divided into three parts: Rove’s early years; How Rove runs campaigns and some insights into the election process; and Rove’s years with George W. Bush.
The second part is very good, containing insights of a generational election specialist talent. Whatever his ethics, Rove is extremely successful.
1. Rove’s early years
Rove comes from a broken family. Rove explains that his biological Father abandoned Rove’s family to live with another man. Rove became a Republican partisan by age 9, when he was a big Richard Nixon fan.
Rove does not discuss any religious beliefs. His high school years were spent in Utah at a 90% Mormon school. An already committed partisan, Rove loved Milton Friedman's right wing platitudes and gives no indication he placed them under any critical scrutiny.
In his early years, Rove proved an energetic talented debater. He entered politics in high school. He quickly rose to prominence. In 1969, Senator Ralph Smith hired Rove to work on his campaign. Smith lost his election; Rove describes Smith as running a stupid campaign. Through that work, Rove made enough contacts to run for the College Republicans election.
“I was asked if I could fly standby to Washington, D.C. on a regular basis, work three or four days, and sleep on a mat on the floor of the current [CR} executive director. …the current executive director would probably take umbrage and I wouldn’t get paid. How could I pass up an offer like that?...Our bitter infighting soured the RNC on the College Republicans.” Chapter 2 King of the College Republicans, p 26-27.
Rove learned important lessons. His CR wins catapulted Rove to a high level within the Republican party ranks by age 20. Rove started a mail fund raiser company and quickly became a campaign runner. Rove ran for Congress and lost.
Rove’s first wife was from Houston. Studying demographics, Rove felt Texas would shift Republican. Rove left the University of Utah without receiving a degree and moved to Texas. He claims the move was for his Texas politically connected wife. Apparently, she was a work widow and soon divorced him. Rove remarried and one child, only briefly mentioned in Rove's autobiography. (Rove's 2nd wife divorced him and Rove has remarried in 2012.)
In addition to his direct mailing and fund raising business, Rove worked for various campaigns, both as fund raiser and as strategist. In the 1990’s, George H.W. Bush hired Rove to work on his Presidential campaign.
2. How Rove sees the World of Elections
“Being a college Republican [helped me learn] the power of new technologies to communicate our message. We saw that politics was not about power or status, but about ideas and ideals. To view it as about power was to treat it as a game, cynical and ultimately meaningless and cruel. But to understand it was about great principles was to understand that politics could be a hopeful and important exercise of our democratic experience.” Chapter 2, Page 33
Getting elected is mostly about power and status. Rove claims that the overall policy is important. But nowhere in his autobiography does he mention any study of policy, of what makes laws good or bad. Instead, Rove explains in detail how he was busy selling messages and winning campaigns; his main regard is whether campaign messages help his candidate win. One example:
“In 1999 and early 2000, I became convinced that George W Bush could win West Virginia, something others considered dubious [because WV had been heavily democrat for years]…. The State’s coal industry was under attack from the Clinton administration, many democratic voters were pro-life-, pro-prayer, and pro-gun even if they had voted democrat for decades.” Chap 4, Page 71
Rove characterizes regulation as placing “the industry under attack.” He has no discussion of whether he actually looked at or evaluated any regulation. No discussion of a general understanding of rules and why we have them. No discussion of whether allowing mines to function without or with relaxed safety standards is a good or bad thing. No discussion of whether he had evaluated the pollution levels, or cared whether the extraction industry’s opposition to pollution laws were justified or not. Similarly, Rove ignores the mine and worker safety regulations. Wage and hour laws. Rove claims no analysis of any facts.
Readers are familiar with the gun control arguments. Again, Rove makes no analysis or any pro's or con's for such rules. Ronald Reagan was the last person able to seriously push a Federal level gun control law; Clinton rode Reagan’s coattails to institute a assault rifle ban in 1994. Since then, gun control laws have been under harsh assault. Proponents don’t have the votes.
Rove's only concern is that a “They are coming to take your guns and then make you a slave” campaign sells easily, true or not.
As to prayer, we again lack any analysis of whether the Government promoting religion or superstition is good for anyone. The Constitution prohibits establishment of a State religion. Is undermining this rule good for the country? Rove does not care.
Good or bad policy arguments aside, there is another question. Rove has no religious background himself. So was Rove actually promoting religion or just manipulating an easily manipulated group to get them to vote Republican?
A GW Bush insider, David Kuo, detailed the Rove directed cynical manipulation of the religious right.
David Kuo was a well connected evangelical Christian. He helped GW Bush get elected by coordinating the religious right and was rewarded with a position as Special Assistant to President GW Bush and Deputy Director of the Office of Faith Based and Community Initiatives (FBCI). Kuo’s tell all book, Tempting Faith, was published in 2008.
Kuo claims that while others were nominally in charge, Rove actually directed multiple offices, including the FBCI and Political Affairs. After explaining how the Bush campaign relied heavily on the religious right to win the election, Kuo quotes promises from Bush’s inauguration speech to give Christians “an honored place in our plans and in our laws,” What actually happened? Kuo writes that upon joining the White House staff in January 2001:
“[Bush appointed Don Willet, a Texas lawyer not affiliated with the Evangelical movement, to run the new office of FBCI]. On a good day one plan after another was rejected. On most days [requests for a staff, budget, or plan] were simply ignored…..
“[Upon transition] Every other White House office was up and running. The Faith based Initiative still operated out of the nearly vacant transition offices.
“Three days later, a Tuesday, Karl Rove summoned Willet to his office to announce that the entire faith-based initiative would be rolled out the following Monday. Willet asked just how—without a director, staff, office, or plan—the President would do that. Rove just looked at him, took a deep breath, and said, “I don’t know. Just get me a f*%ing faith based thing. Got it?” Willet was shown the door.” Tempting Faith, Ch 9, pages 135-140.
Kuo later explains that the Bush Administration would glad hand the religious right leaders to their face. But privately referred to them as "nut jobs."
To bring this back to his successful West Virginia campaign, Rove's statements and actions show Rove's his main consideration is which advertising campaign worked best sell West Virginia voters--not good policy nor, as Kuo's account details, keeping campaign promises.
3. Dirty Tricks
There is some early footage of Rove discussing dirty tricks with another young Republican. At the time, Rove was one of those zealots who would be expected to actually do such tricks. Later, he would be the one who managed them (if they were done at all) not the spear thrower who would carry them out. For what it is worth, Rove claims his attempts at dirty tricks mostly failed so he left those behind.
Rove explains he likes to lure opponents into making unfounded charges. Then he squashes them.
“An important thing to remember [about attacks] is that a counterpunch is often stronger than an initial punch. That may mean a candidate tries to maneuver his opponent into striking the first blow on a topic.” Then he destroys the attacker with a pre-planned counterattack. (See Chapter 4, pages 76-77). (3rd parties report that sometimes Rove himself writes the original attack ads, falsely claims they are from the opponent, and then delivers the counter attack. He typically times this a week or two before the election, when there is no time for response.)
In 1970, Rove used a false identity to enter Democrat Alan J. Dixon's campaign office. Dixon was running for Illinois Treasurer. Rove stole 1000 sheets of Dixon's campaign letterhead, then printed fake campaign rally fliers promising "free beer, free food, girls and a good time for nothing." He had these fake fliers distributed at rock concerts and homeless shelters, with the effect of disrupting Dixon's rally. Dixon, however, won the election. In 1073, Rove bragged about his deed to the Dallas Morning News. His autobiography claims, "It was a youthful prank... and I regret it."
There is no record of Rove repaying the victim for Rove's theft. There is, however, evidence that the very rich conservatives want someone who cheats. This would explain why Rove admitted being a forger and a thief to a Dallas Newspaper. Rick Perlstein wrote an article for The Baffler discussing Republican mail fund raising techniques, providing a view quite different from Rove's and listing events eerily similar to Rove's theft and forgery in the Dixon election.
Rove does not mention it in his book. But in at least two of Rove's campaigns--Governor Richards Governorship of Texas and a Justice See's 1996 run for Associate Justice in Alabama--whisper campaigns started claiming Richards was a lesbian and See a pedophile. They are not one of us/they are dangerous seems to be common Rove campaign themes.
Excerpt from The Long Con: Mail-order conservatism by RICK PERLSTEIN
The Baffler November 21, 2012
"Once, I gave a speech to a marquee assemblage of true members of the conservative elite, from William Bennett to Midge Decter to Alf Regnery, at the James Madison Program in American Ideals and Institutions, a conservative think tank that rich donors convinced Princeton University to house under its auspices. (Karl Rove made a cameo appearance, during which he bragged about making a Republican congressman cry.)
"In my remarks, I laid out what I took to be a disturbing moral pattern, what I naively thought would stir these folks into something like shame. Why was it, I asked, that whenever Richard Nixon needed someone to brazen out some patently immoral, illegal, or dishonest act, he frequently and explicitly sought out a veteran of the conservative movement—the same conservatives whose ideology in policy contexts he usually derided? Because, I said, “Nixon knew that if you had a dirty job to get done, you got people who answered the description he made of E. Howard Hunt and G. Gordon Liddy: ‘good, healthy, right-wing exuberants.’”
"I gave half a dozen examples of latter-day conservative exuberance, in my own admitted exuberance to rain down the shame: the phony “middle of the road caucus” formed to secretly take over a National Student Association meeting from the right; the fliers the RNC put out during the 2004 election announcing that a President John Kerry would institute a plan to ban the Bible; the time Jerry Falwell lied that he’d never argued for the elimination of the public school system—“lying for the Lord,” as Mormons call it. Then, as the question-and-answer period approached, I trembled, anticipating the conservative elite’s chastened response. Yes, reader: I was once just that naive.
"M. Stanton Evans, a legendary movement godfather, stood up. He said my invocation of Richard Nixon was inappropriate because Richard Nixon had never been a conservative. He proceeded, though, to make a striking admission: “I didn’t like Nixon until Watergate”—at which point, apparently, Nixon finally convinced conservatives he could be one of them." http://www.thebaffler.com/...
While a bullet point for rich Republican donors, Rove does not tell the possibly fabricated Made a Republicans Congressman Cry story in his 520 page autobiography.
Rove describes another trick I think he and many Republicans use. In his early debate career, Rove explains how through great preparation he and his partner would find some little known fact written by someone. They would quote the conclusion and the source, then chortle condescendingly when their opponents proved they were not omniscient.
You still see Republicans using this trick--based on the fact people are not omniscient--when their “experts” get on national TV talk shows. They cite some obscure report and claim it shows their opponent incorrect and incompetent.
4. Elections and How Rove Wins Them
The best parts of the book, in my opinion, pertain to election tactics. Rove is no doubt a master. In chapters 1 through 5, Rove provides some explanation as to how he wins election campaigns.
First, he works extremely hard to obtain all the information he can. Although Rove denies any chicanery, it is curious how Rove repeatedly obtains secret inside information from within his adversary’s camp.
Second, he uses this to form a plan, using ideas to mask the underlying fight for space and control. Rove spins this into a self-aggrandizing statement. He claims he looks for the best ideas, not to win. But his results indicate the opposite conclusion. Rove tells no stories about how he supported the better candidate on principle (how could he as a right wing zealot?); rather, they focus on how and why people won or lost. Rove writes,
“A campaign’s essential argument must be easily understood, capable of being widely disseminated, backed by evidence, and authentic. [Even if negative, it should be framed in a positive way.]” Chapter 4, Page 66
One of Rove’s claims is that the Democrats moved so far left it was losing elections. But, as 3rd parties know, this is simply a message framing. The Republican party itself has shifted far right and the Democrats have followed, adopting many of the same programs espoused by Ronald Reagan. Rove ignores these shifts.
Third, Rove makes sure he is in complete charge of the campaign. Rove explains that without a “shot caller” who can plan strategy and control tactics, campaigns usually fail.
Fourth, Rove plans for contingencies and prepares responses. He assesses not only his candidate’s strengths and weaknesses but also his opponents. Then he crafts plans based on likely positions.
Fifth, Rove relies heavily technology and marketing research.
Sixth, Rove explains that a campaign must be carefully budgeted and planned. Rove emphasizes candidate discipline, both on message and in running the campaign.
Seventh, Rove emphasizes that attacks need to come from trusted sources—and who different groups trust varies considerably. He writes:
“[A]nother rule to keep in mind: People are inclined to disregard attacks whose source is either unknown or suspect. To be effective, an attack must be launched by someone with credibility and defended when [the target], the media, or credible third parties, or some combination launches a counterattack. A candidate must be willing to defend and stand behind his charge.” Ch 6, page 77.
In this regard, Rove has worked very hard to encourage his party to discredit anyone who has or might attack the Republican party. Thus, the cynical logic behind the constant barrage of advertisements and coordinated statements branding the so-called “biased liberal media” and the adjunct creation of an ever stronger right wing echo chamber.
5. The GW Bush Years
Rove describes a brilliant, humane administration dealing competently with massive emergencies. They are sometimes undone only by unaffiliated Republican bumblers and by the always inept, dishonest, nefarious Democrats. That's Roves view.
Is the writer an accurate Historian of the events they witnessed or summarized? Are all important facts—even the damaging ones—mentioned? Rove’s versions of events fails scrutiny. As the following examples show, Rove is not a credible historian. The three examples use first hand eyewitness statements by Berntsen, McClelland and Kuo, all dedicated, long time Republicans.
5.1 Afghanistan
C&C's introduction brags about how Rove informed GW Bush of the 9/11 attack and how masterful GW Bush was in response. Rove devotes 3 pages to the Afghanistan War itself. According to Rove, that war ended in 2001 with a rousing victory. The US went into Afghanistan to get Osama Bin Laden, who was being protected by the Taliban. The prior Afghan regime had been so corrupt its populace turned to the Taliban. While religious fanatics, apparently the Afghans initially thought the Taliban more honest than its predecessors.
In chapter 18, Striking Back, Rove describes the war on the Afghanistan Taliban. Bush wanted something done quickly. Shortly 9/11, special forces and CIA operatives hired Tajik tribesman (the Northern Alliance). Supported by the US air force, they invaded Afghanistan to fight the Taliban. Best information indicated Bin Laden was hiding in the Tora Bora fortress. (Continued at http://www.dailykos.com/story/2013/10...)
March 6, 2015
Interesting. Finished up reading President George W. Bush's Decision Points and Dick Cheney's In My Time: A Personal and Political Memoir.
In many ways Karl Rove's wasn't quite as interesting as the other two, but it was also more level headed. Bush and Cheney seemed to dwell unreasonably on the events of September 11th and the "War on Terror". Rove brought up the issue, but he seemed to have a more balanced, less impassioned view of the issue.
My favorite moment was when Rove talks about spin. He was going up against a candidate that thought of himself as very intelligent. Rove said, perfect "he looks down on the average voter". Every strength in itself is a weakness. Rove is a good student of Sun Tzu.
Most importantly, Rove said that you should "attack your opponent on his weakness that he perceives as a strength". Think about that for a while. Once you figure it out, Rove and Associates will have a job for you... Very subtle, easy to get wrong - but with skilled application this is a strategy that Rove has proven very effective.
Most of the reviews on Amazon.com for Rove's book are useless. Apparently he was rather demonized in the media. I wasn't aware. That said, one reviewer wrote:
'He seems to try to create a hypnotic push and pull in the listeners mind, making it easy to forgive him when he messes up. His philosophy is a lot like the New Testament, it is difficult to attack it precisely because it has contradictions. This is his style: It's like this. This is the ideal. Now it's that, and I have completely forgot this. Won't you forgive me? If you remind me that I have contradicted myself, then I will remind you of what I have said that is most convenient for me. I make mistakes. For example, Karl states his belief in the intelligence of voters before insulting them. Another example or a peculiarity is as, "Now I, Karl, am a tough gun touting Clint Eastwood type," and then, "Now I'm a frank intellectual."'
'Sometimes I find his emotional appeals distasteful and more importantly the least reasonable choice possible, but the sentiment he leaves to his words is thought provoking because he uses different tones than the usual. By changing the common tone I often hear words delivered in, it makes for bittersweet thoughts. I like that. The most likable trait about Karl is that he doesn't fit nicely in a box. If I had to describe his philosophy, the word, "Jelly," comes to mind.'
Very good observation on the part of that reviewer. I had noticed this, but very subtly - probably because I skimmed through so quickly.
This is basically a dialectic style. Nice to see it applied to Republic Politics.
In many ways Karl Rove's wasn't quite as interesting as the other two, but it was also more level headed. Bush and Cheney seemed to dwell unreasonably on the events of September 11th and the "War on Terror". Rove brought up the issue, but he seemed to have a more balanced, less impassioned view of the issue.
My favorite moment was when Rove talks about spin. He was going up against a candidate that thought of himself as very intelligent. Rove said, perfect "he looks down on the average voter". Every strength in itself is a weakness. Rove is a good student of Sun Tzu.
Most importantly, Rove said that you should "attack your opponent on his weakness that he perceives as a strength". Think about that for a while. Once you figure it out, Rove and Associates will have a job for you... Very subtle, easy to get wrong - but with skilled application this is a strategy that Rove has proven very effective.
Most of the reviews on Amazon.com for Rove's book are useless. Apparently he was rather demonized in the media. I wasn't aware. That said, one reviewer wrote:
'He seems to try to create a hypnotic push and pull in the listeners mind, making it easy to forgive him when he messes up. His philosophy is a lot like the New Testament, it is difficult to attack it precisely because it has contradictions. This is his style: It's like this. This is the ideal. Now it's that, and I have completely forgot this. Won't you forgive me? If you remind me that I have contradicted myself, then I will remind you of what I have said that is most convenient for me. I make mistakes. For example, Karl states his belief in the intelligence of voters before insulting them. Another example or a peculiarity is as, "Now I, Karl, am a tough gun touting Clint Eastwood type," and then, "Now I'm a frank intellectual."'
'Sometimes I find his emotional appeals distasteful and more importantly the least reasonable choice possible, but the sentiment he leaves to his words is thought provoking because he uses different tones than the usual. By changing the common tone I often hear words delivered in, it makes for bittersweet thoughts. I like that. The most likable trait about Karl is that he doesn't fit nicely in a box. If I had to describe his philosophy, the word, "Jelly," comes to mind.'
Very good observation on the part of that reviewer. I had noticed this, but very subtly - probably because I skimmed through so quickly.
This is basically a dialectic style. Nice to see it applied to Republic Politics.
May 11, 2013
I've been on a biographical/autobiographical kick lately. Between that, and my interest in politics and history, this book was a great fit. There is a lot of rumor, innuendo, and gossip - both positive and negative about The Architect. I decided I'd like to hear his story straight from the horse's mouth, so to speak. It was fascinating. Much like Dr. Rice's memoirs, it was a heavy read. Not because it was boring (quite the opposite) but because it is very deep, detail-oriented, and throughly documented (or perhaps just memorized after his times being investigated which all proved to be false allegations). He has a bibliography at the end to back up many of the statements in the book.
My favorite part of the book was probably the beginning. He wrote of his childhood, and more importantly, how his love of politics began at a young age. He gives credit to teachers that encouraged him along the way. That's not to say his accounting of campaigns; strategy; and the work that went in to everything wasn't fascinating as well. And it was exciting to be given insight into HQs on election nights - not just what the press & PR spinners show people. Descriptions of his time in the White House again offered glimpses into the stress of being on the inside as things were happening. It was also cool to compare Mrs. L. Bush, President G.W. Bush, and Dr. Rice's recollections of events (9/11, for example) to Rove's recollections. Same event, powerful people with high levels of access, different locations and responsibilities, through their eyes. It helps to put the full picture together. Another detail that struck me as quite similar to other political books I've read, some I've listed and others I've not listed yet, is the way our legal system is apparently being abused to try to "take down" people by either smearing them, wearing them down financially, wearing them down emotionally/psychologically or by hoping that if you throw enough, eventually something will stick. Or by a combination of all of the above. Since most of these campaigns result in no convictions, I'm inclined to agree. I love forward to reading more from others.
Rove shares of his love politics, country, and family in this book. He's upfront about mistakes he has made and things he would do differently. He's thoughtful, respectful, and honest.
**Side note - As he is a controversial figure, I welcome the opportunity for honest discussion about this book. But not from people who have 1) not read the book and 2) speak to this from their personal opinions about the man versus what they've heard with no back-up or in Op/Ed articles.
My favorite part of the book was probably the beginning. He wrote of his childhood, and more importantly, how his love of politics began at a young age. He gives credit to teachers that encouraged him along the way. That's not to say his accounting of campaigns; strategy; and the work that went in to everything wasn't fascinating as well. And it was exciting to be given insight into HQs on election nights - not just what the press & PR spinners show people. Descriptions of his time in the White House again offered glimpses into the stress of being on the inside as things were happening. It was also cool to compare Mrs. L. Bush, President G.W. Bush, and Dr. Rice's recollections of events (9/11, for example) to Rove's recollections. Same event, powerful people with high levels of access, different locations and responsibilities, through their eyes. It helps to put the full picture together. Another detail that struck me as quite similar to other political books I've read, some I've listed and others I've not listed yet, is the way our legal system is apparently being abused to try to "take down" people by either smearing them, wearing them down financially, wearing them down emotionally/psychologically or by hoping that if you throw enough, eventually something will stick. Or by a combination of all of the above. Since most of these campaigns result in no convictions, I'm inclined to agree. I love forward to reading more from others.
Rove shares of his love politics, country, and family in this book. He's upfront about mistakes he has made and things he would do differently. He's thoughtful, respectful, and honest.
**Side note - As he is a controversial figure, I welcome the opportunity for honest discussion about this book. But not from people who have 1) not read the book and 2) speak to this from their personal opinions about the man versus what they've heard with no back-up or in Op/Ed articles.
September 20, 2010
It’s hard to really judge this piece of work, far from being a political polemic, or apologetic sympathy tantrum, Rove simply writes a book about his life and career.
Unsurprisingly the most interesting parts are George W.’s presidential campaign and 2 terms in office. Rove’s early life stories are somewhat dull, and to be fair almost all political figures’ backgrounds are incredibly yawnworthy (or perhaps are too unrevealing to be of interest). Rove did have a particularly difficult upbringing in regards to his parent’s stability which is mostly analysed through rebuttal of Rove’s critics (more on his critics later in like one paragraph)
All in all, Rove really only provides us with a step by step account of his political career, never delving very deep into any issues, and most annoyingly never really discussing exactly what his views actually are and how he defends them. (Perhaps this is because he thinks most people are already aware of them) Instead we merely see Rove’s viewpoint when he speaks scathingly of those who disagree.
Another frustration of this book is Rove’s tendency to jump forward in time inappropriately, as mentioned earlier, when discussing his family Rove describes his critics accusations (made more recently as when he was a child Rove had slightly fewer critics [I assume]) of his father being a closet homosexual, frequently throughout the book Rove takes snipes at Obama. Which comes across as petty and creates the appearance of Rove being unable to restrain himself and childishly lashing out.
Of course Rove is unashamedly pro-Bush, and sees much of his president’s behaviour in a positive light. He takes personal responsibility for Bush’s toxic ratings claiming the lack of defense on Iraq issues ultimately damned the former president.
While this review might make it seem like I wouldn’t recommend this book, behind all the politics there is some fascinating insight into election campaign which I think is must-read by anyone in the business. You might not agree with Rove, but its hard to argue that he doesn’t know what he’s doing on the campaign field...
Unsurprisingly the most interesting parts are George W.’s presidential campaign and 2 terms in office. Rove’s early life stories are somewhat dull, and to be fair almost all political figures’ backgrounds are incredibly yawnworthy (or perhaps are too unrevealing to be of interest). Rove did have a particularly difficult upbringing in regards to his parent’s stability which is mostly analysed through rebuttal of Rove’s critics (more on his critics later in like one paragraph)
All in all, Rove really only provides us with a step by step account of his political career, never delving very deep into any issues, and most annoyingly never really discussing exactly what his views actually are and how he defends them. (Perhaps this is because he thinks most people are already aware of them) Instead we merely see Rove’s viewpoint when he speaks scathingly of those who disagree.
Another frustration of this book is Rove’s tendency to jump forward in time inappropriately, as mentioned earlier, when discussing his family Rove describes his critics accusations (made more recently as when he was a child Rove had slightly fewer critics [I assume]) of his father being a closet homosexual, frequently throughout the book Rove takes snipes at Obama. Which comes across as petty and creates the appearance of Rove being unable to restrain himself and childishly lashing out.
Of course Rove is unashamedly pro-Bush, and sees much of his president’s behaviour in a positive light. He takes personal responsibility for Bush’s toxic ratings claiming the lack of defense on Iraq issues ultimately damned the former president.
While this review might make it seem like I wouldn’t recommend this book, behind all the politics there is some fascinating insight into election campaign which I think is must-read by anyone in the business. You might not agree with Rove, but its hard to argue that he doesn’t know what he’s doing on the campaign field...
December 7, 2010
Great book! Narrated by the author himself, Karl Rove. Learned a lot about the Bush years. Although I still think Bush and Rove made some poor decisions, I think his administration was unjustly harangued by the left and the media (if those two actually even qualify as two separate entities). Any president is going to make bad decisions. It's inevitable. But hopefully he'll be skilled and talented enough to make more good decisions than bad ones, and to correct the bad ones quickly as soon as he recognizes them. That's where I'd say Bush has some room for improvement. He probably has a bit too much stick-to-it-iveness when it comes to standing by his decisions. More recognition of his mistakes and a readiness to make quick changes would've served him and our nation better in certain situations.
Fascinating to hear a little bit about 9-11 from an insider like Rove.
Fascinating to hear a little bit about 9-11 from an insider like Rove.
April 30, 2011
Before reading this book, about the only thing I knew about Karl Rove was his opinions on political talk shows. People that did not agree with his political views have called him just about every name in the book. I wanted to read this book to hear things from Mr Rove's perspective and I'm glad I did.
This book is a chronology of the life of Karl Rove from his family days through his time at the White House. I got a good background on his life and experiences well before hearing his views on television. As you might expect, he had good time and bad times, but he stayed focused on his goals in life.
Whether you love him, hate him, or just don't know him, I thought this was a good book to read about a man that played a very prominent role in the political environment of the United States for quite a few years.
This book is a chronology of the life of Karl Rove from his family days through his time at the White House. I got a good background on his life and experiences well before hearing his views on television. As you might expect, he had good time and bad times, but he stayed focused on his goals in life.
Whether you love him, hate him, or just don't know him, I thought this was a good book to read about a man that played a very prominent role in the political environment of the United States for quite a few years.
Read
March 22, 2021While Karl Rove is regarded by a certain band on the political spectrum as the Devil incarnate, I found his book to be a relatively straighforward series of reminiscences about his life and his involvement with Republican politics and the Bush administration. Rove wasn't born into a political family, he just developed a strong interest in the game while he was in college, and became active in the campus Republicans. His success in that arena eventually moved him on to bigger and better things, and he founded a successful business running political campaigns all over the country.
One interesting insight from Rove, "For incumbents, self-preservation is more important than maintaining their party's dominance." This plays out quite often in what used to be called gerrymandering, when counties or areas that vote for a particular party are moved to another congressional district, so as to increase the percentages in favor of the incumbent, at the expense of their party's fortunes in the rest of the state.
Democrats and their allies in the media have often identified the key elements of a "Rovian" campaign as being sneakiness, untraceability of dirty deeds, etc. In contrast, Rove identifies what he feels to be the eight elements of a true Rovian campaign: it must be centered on big ideas, pursue a theme that resonates with what voters know, be driven by historical data, use sophisticated modeling to identify supporters and match them with issues, understand that there are right and wrong ways to criticize an opponent, have a strategic plan and discipline, be volunteer-friendly, and collect vital knowledge, volunteers and money for the candidate. Sounds like a mission statement (more long-winded than most) for a successful business - which Rove had.
As you might imagine, a huge portion of the book is devoted to Rove's involvement with George W. Bush, from his gubenatorial campaign through the first six years of his presidency. Rove says that Governor Bush believed that "education is to a state government what defense is to the federal government: its first responsibility." His No Child Left Behind policy was intended to help the states to do a better job, though its implementation seems to have ruffled a lot of feathers. The major complaint (and I heard it from my teacher friends, too) was that the law forced educators to "teach to the test". If the test is one that accurately measures knowledge of the basics, then I don't understand the problem. There's enough time for fuzzy knowledge when you get to college. If you can't read, write, or perform simple mathematics, success in life is unlikely.
On the subject of "compassionate conservativism", which I've heard of, of course, but never really had explained, Rove says that when conservatives in the past have ignored the issues of poverty, education, health care and a secure retirement, it has left them to be addressed by liberals, often in ways that run counter to conservative values. He notes that most conservatives don't ignore these issues in their private lives, but instead contribute to charities, volunteer through their churches, and are involved in their communities in solving social problems.
When talking about Bush's selection of a running mate, Rove compares the vetting process candidates had to endure to "a proctology exam."
I hadn't realized that, before Bush's faith-based initiative, religious charities were actually unable to pursue federal grant money. I thought that most of them chose not to, rather than submit to the government's intrusion into their business. But the approximately $20 billion in grant money had been limited to secular charities before, to satisfy the "separation of church and state" liberal meme.
Roughly connected to a topic from my review of Superfreakonomics, it's interesting that, "By 2006, only one industrialized economy grew its GDP and at the same time reduced its absolute level of greenhouse gas emissions: The United States." Even after rejecting the Kyoto treaty, the Bush administration allocated $22 billion to climate change technology and research...more money than the rest of the world, combined.
Rove spends a little time talking about the near collapse of Fannie Mae and Freddy Mac, which pretty well destroyed the housing market. While the Bush administration warned of troubles in those GSEs, and pushed for more regulation (contrary to popular narrative), Democrats in Congress filibustered legislation that would have reduced the magnitude of the problem. "Among those Democrats who backed the filibuster and opposed reform was the freshman senator from Illinois, Barack Obama. He was the third-largest recipient of campaign gifts from Fannie and Freddie employees in 2004."
On Katrina, Rove goes into the behind the scenes negotiations that may have been key in the delay in getting effective relief to New Orleans. As it turns out, by law, the federal government can only send in troops under two circumstances; when the state governor requests it, or if the president declares the region to be in a "state of insurrection." Governor Blanco didn't request federal intervention for days, and Bush was understandably reluctant to exercise the second option. Later on, when Bush appropriated $60 billion in disaster relief, Governor Blanco requested that a half billion of it be spent on a tourism advertising campaign. Really?
This book is definitely a good retrospective for you political junkies. I thought when I read the title that Rove was referring to himself, but it becomes clear in the afterword that it was George W. Bush whom he regarded as a man who always acted on the courage of his convictions, and whose presidency had consequence.
One interesting insight from Rove, "For incumbents, self-preservation is more important than maintaining their party's dominance." This plays out quite often in what used to be called gerrymandering, when counties or areas that vote for a particular party are moved to another congressional district, so as to increase the percentages in favor of the incumbent, at the expense of their party's fortunes in the rest of the state.
Democrats and their allies in the media have often identified the key elements of a "Rovian" campaign as being sneakiness, untraceability of dirty deeds, etc. In contrast, Rove identifies what he feels to be the eight elements of a true Rovian campaign: it must be centered on big ideas, pursue a theme that resonates with what voters know, be driven by historical data, use sophisticated modeling to identify supporters and match them with issues, understand that there are right and wrong ways to criticize an opponent, have a strategic plan and discipline, be volunteer-friendly, and collect vital knowledge, volunteers and money for the candidate. Sounds like a mission statement (more long-winded than most) for a successful business - which Rove had.
As you might imagine, a huge portion of the book is devoted to Rove's involvement with George W. Bush, from his gubenatorial campaign through the first six years of his presidency. Rove says that Governor Bush believed that "education is to a state government what defense is to the federal government: its first responsibility." His No Child Left Behind policy was intended to help the states to do a better job, though its implementation seems to have ruffled a lot of feathers. The major complaint (and I heard it from my teacher friends, too) was that the law forced educators to "teach to the test". If the test is one that accurately measures knowledge of the basics, then I don't understand the problem. There's enough time for fuzzy knowledge when you get to college. If you can't read, write, or perform simple mathematics, success in life is unlikely.
On the subject of "compassionate conservativism", which I've heard of, of course, but never really had explained, Rove says that when conservatives in the past have ignored the issues of poverty, education, health care and a secure retirement, it has left them to be addressed by liberals, often in ways that run counter to conservative values. He notes that most conservatives don't ignore these issues in their private lives, but instead contribute to charities, volunteer through their churches, and are involved in their communities in solving social problems.
When talking about Bush's selection of a running mate, Rove compares the vetting process candidates had to endure to "a proctology exam."
I hadn't realized that, before Bush's faith-based initiative, religious charities were actually unable to pursue federal grant money. I thought that most of them chose not to, rather than submit to the government's intrusion into their business. But the approximately $20 billion in grant money had been limited to secular charities before, to satisfy the "separation of church and state" liberal meme.
Roughly connected to a topic from my review of Superfreakonomics, it's interesting that, "By 2006, only one industrialized economy grew its GDP and at the same time reduced its absolute level of greenhouse gas emissions: The United States." Even after rejecting the Kyoto treaty, the Bush administration allocated $22 billion to climate change technology and research...more money than the rest of the world, combined.
Rove spends a little time talking about the near collapse of Fannie Mae and Freddy Mac, which pretty well destroyed the housing market. While the Bush administration warned of troubles in those GSEs, and pushed for more regulation (contrary to popular narrative), Democrats in Congress filibustered legislation that would have reduced the magnitude of the problem. "Among those Democrats who backed the filibuster and opposed reform was the freshman senator from Illinois, Barack Obama. He was the third-largest recipient of campaign gifts from Fannie and Freddie employees in 2004."
On Katrina, Rove goes into the behind the scenes negotiations that may have been key in the delay in getting effective relief to New Orleans. As it turns out, by law, the federal government can only send in troops under two circumstances; when the state governor requests it, or if the president declares the region to be in a "state of insurrection." Governor Blanco didn't request federal intervention for days, and Bush was understandably reluctant to exercise the second option. Later on, when Bush appropriated $60 billion in disaster relief, Governor Blanco requested that a half billion of it be spent on a tourism advertising campaign. Really?
This book is definitely a good retrospective for you political junkies. I thought when I read the title that Rove was referring to himself, but it becomes clear in the afterword that it was George W. Bush whom he regarded as a man who always acted on the courage of his convictions, and whose presidency had consequence.
April 4, 2010
There were some interesting insights, however the topics were covered somewhat superficially. It's okay, because I wanted an overview and not a deep dive.
The writing was a little dry, but I did think Mr. Rove did a good job of sharing his opionions on the events that transpired leading up to and during his time at the White House.
If you're one of those anti-Rovian, anti-Bush people, you won't like this book. If you're a big fan of Bush, you'll probably love it. If your somewhat nuetral and interested in learning more about a behind-the-sceens view of politics, you might get something out of reading this book.
The writing was a little dry, but I did think Mr. Rove did a good job of sharing his opionions on the events that transpired leading up to and during his time at the White House.
If you're one of those anti-Rovian, anti-Bush people, you won't like this book. If you're a big fan of Bush, you'll probably love it. If your somewhat nuetral and interested in learning more about a behind-the-sceens view of politics, you might get something out of reading this book.
July 9, 2024
I've always disliked politics, and so it surprised me that I liked Rove's book a much as I did. Like or hate politics, Rove makes the case for why they are necessary, or at least why one has to be good at them to get elected, or to accomplish anything once in office.
George W. Bush had a lot going against him from the very beginning of his presidency, and I appreciated Rove's perspective of Bush's presidency and of his character. He defends controversial decisions, and acknowledges mistakes that were made. Besides being a brilliant politician (which has to be acknowledged whether or not you agree with him), Rove is a pretty good writer as well.
George W. Bush had a lot going against him from the very beginning of his presidency, and I appreciated Rove's perspective of Bush's presidency and of his character. He defends controversial decisions, and acknowledges mistakes that were made. Besides being a brilliant politician (which has to be acknowledged whether or not you agree with him), Rove is a pretty good writer as well.
December 28, 2010
3.5 stars. This was a very interesting behind-the-scenes look at the Bush 43 campaigns and administration. Though there was quite a bit of self-serving explanation, Rove did clear up a number of controversies (why did the Fed take so long to respond to Katrina? what was the prupose and motivation for the Medicare drug benefit? etc.) and shed light on some of the reasons for the venom directed toward him and the administration in general. It's amazing to me that so many people are more interested in politics (in the dirty sense of the word) and furthering their own views and interests than in actually getting things done.
May 24, 2010
Although it bogged down in a few spots when discussing the intricacies of political strategy, it was still a very compelling behind-the-scenes look at events of the past 10 years. It was interesting to see Karl's perspective on the 2000 and 2004 elections, 9/11, the Iraq war, and various political battles. I had always felt that the media had turned Karl Rove into a caricature - he seemed so reasonable when you were able to hear him speak for himself. This book just confirmed that impression for me. Here is a thoughtful, funny guy with a ring-side seat to history.
September 13, 2011
Okay, so I might be a political nerd but this book is fascinating to me. Amazing to hear what really goes on in an administration.
Really enjoyed this book. I learned a lot and achieved a new respect for the people that back-up a president. I was a little disappointed with some of Karl Rove's personal statements -- like being upset with Obama that Obama had labeled him as one who believed the US was a Christian nation. Apparently Mr. Rove does NOT believe that which I found very discouraging. But, other than that totally enjoyed this book.
Really enjoyed this book. I learned a lot and achieved a new respect for the people that back-up a president. I was a little disappointed with some of Karl Rove's personal statements -- like being upset with Obama that Obama had labeled him as one who believed the US was a Christian nation. Apparently Mr. Rove does NOT believe that which I found very discouraging. But, other than that totally enjoyed this book.
January 24, 2011
I picked up this book probably for the same reason many did…to understand the “architect” behind George W. Bush’s presidency…I have to admit that I enjoyed the entire book…In short I found that Rove was very candid about his mistakes in the West Wing and in his campaigns, and he talks frankly about the heartbreak of his early family years. Ultimately, I found that Courage and Consequence is about the joy of a life committed to the conservative cause, a life spent in political combat and service to country, no matter the costs....worth reading.
February 1, 2016
Yes I know - Why Hans would you read a book by this man? The Politico in me could not resist. He masterminded two Presidential Elections, which is no small feet. He is one of the best political minds of our generation and yes the book is worthy. He does go off on "liberals" quite a bit and is supporting and promoting GW's place in history (I was not buying the GW the great environmentalist claim). But beyond that it is a very interesting and inciteful. If you love politics it's a must read.
January 24, 2016
This dragged a bit. I did come away with an assurance that George Bush did act on principle with courage and intelligence. Also not a news flash, but the Democrats do not play by the rules except what ever works for them.
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