Running on the slogan "The Man Against the Bosses," McKinley also took on the moneymen who controlled the party by doling out favors. Knowing he didn't stand a chance with the GOP's traditional base of supporters, he did the unthinkable and reached out to diverse ethnic groups, including openly seeking the endorsement of Catholic Church leaders. A talented politician and reserved Ohioan, McKinley (called "The Major") changed the arc of American history by running the first truly modern presidential campaign. McKinley's campaign found answers to many of these challenges, which is why it is so relevant to what ails our politics now. Many of the changes that the country experienced in 1896 match those of today: A rising immigrant population made traditional white Protestants a shrinking share of the electorate, an economic upheaval led to rising inequality, and there was little common ground between the two parties. From New York Times bestselling author and political mastermind Karl Rove comes a fresh look at President William McKinley who found a message that healed his nation, pried his party away from its bosses, and extended its reach to forge a governing majority that lasted thirty years.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |