John S. Dickerson Books

Imagine being elected president, assuming roles such as commander-in-chief, chief diplomat, and world leader, while also expected to fulfill campaign promises and address urgent crises. The American presidency is increasingly burdened and misunderstood, as highlighted by John Dickerson. The challenges of governance began long before Donald Trump and will continue to affect future leaders. The founders did not envision a system where one Chief Magistrate overshadowed Congress, reducing it to a lesser role. This insightful book urges a reevaluation of our perceptions of the presidency, the selection process, and the expectations placed on leaders. It likens presidential campaigns to job interviews, questioning whether we prioritize effective governance over campaigning skills. Dickerson draws from history and interviews with White House staff to clarify the true nature of the presidency, identifying unique responsibilities and how past presidents have navigated their roles. He explores qualities that contribute to effective leadership, examines historical examples, and reflects on Bill Clinton's remark about the White House. Ultimately, to better assess candidates, we must adjust our expectations and recognize the realities of the presidency's demands and limitations.