Review of The Politician: An Insider's Account of John Edwards's Pursuit of the Presidency and the Scandal That Brought Him Down The Politician: An

Power in Politics is Precarious and Dangerous Rating: 4-out-of-5 bookmarks

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

The most enlightening theme of this book is the ultimate dedication of Andrew Young to John Edwards and his family. He seemed to really believe Edwards would change the direction of the country despite knowing him up close and personal. Andrew Young educated the reader on the day-to-day work of running a campaign and his shocking loyalty to the Edwards family. The Edwards' knew no bounds when it came to service (Christmas card photo and fixing bed to name a few). He was on call all the time, doing anything for Edwards with the final sacrifice of declaring he is the father of Edward's mistress baby. There is not much to like about John and Elizabeth Edwards in Young's final analysis. They were/are both power hungry and quick to demean others.

As a cheater, Edwards had the audacity to think the American people would elect (let alone nominate) an unfaithful spouse whose wife has terminal cancer. Americans seem to tolerate murder and wars but never adultery, i.e. Tiger Woods, Jesse James. Elizabeth has garnered the sympathy of most women in this country and it is disappointing to learn in this book and "Game Change", that she is a calculating shrew. It also disturbed me that Edwards, as a senator, never took the time to read the background and details of the bills before him. He proved he was out for himself and relied on his charm, connections and a very smart staff.

I do think Young wrote well and tried to present a fair presentation. However, his goal was to outline his case to defend himself and he needs the money. I appreciated his honesty that no one would give him a job after the Edwards fiasco, and Young needs a best seller to pay his bills. He is tenacious and detail-oriented given his ability to master the art of running a tight, brilliant campaign. Young is an extremist himself. He worked later than anyone, he would drop everything to "step and fetchit" for the Edwards. His lauds the love of his life, Cheri, his wife and loyal companion ad nauseum. I think he apologized to her enough without us hearing about how wonderful she was all the time.

John Edwards' fall from grace was a shock. Many Americans believed in him and he shattered the lives of many of his staff and depleted the net worth of many contributors. Young proved Edwards is a sad commentary on American politics.