Last year I wrote about my favorite books of the year and mentioned The Bully Pulpit
Both progressives, both Republicans, both on the same team for much of their careers, Roosevelt and Taft became bitter rivals and split the party in two. The result was the rise of Woodrow Wilson. Goodwin explores the ways Roosevelt and Taft were a great team when working together, and how Roosevelt’s gregarious style was the right tone needed during his Presidency. Specifically how his wooing of the press, especially the rising progressive press, influenced public opinion.
Roosevelt designated Taft as his heir and supported his election, but from there it began to fall apart. Roosevelt was never satisfied with Taft’s work on reform, and often irritated with the judicious style Taft utilized. Teddy was bombastic, Taft was thoughtful.
To make matters worse, the rising progressive press was floundering during Taft’s presidency. Roosevelt was a master at wooing the press and using them to influence public opinion. Then management problems, personal issues and money challenges took the edge off such amazing magazines as McClure’s. Even if the press had been strong, Taft was clueless about how to utilize their clout.
After one term with Taft, Roosevelt had seen enough. He threw his hat in the ring and attempted to get the Republican nomination. When that didn’t work he started a third party candidacy. Thus the Republican vote was split and Wilson was elected. More interesting from this books perspective, two wonderful friends and allies became heated adversaries.
But then, as always with the best stories, there is a peaceful reconciliation … and Goodwin is at her best at this point. With beauty and grace she lets us see into the hearts of Roosevelt and Taft as they rebuild a friendship.
It’s a wonderful story. It’s incredibly long, but I enjoyed each page of this book.
