Description
Book SynopsisA long-time public servant explicitly connects the various phases of our presidential election system to the content and conduct of American foreign policy.
Trade ReviewMichael H. Armacost has created a detailed history of post-World War II American foreign policy, organized and interpreted in the phases of our presidential election process. His insights about the dynamic interplay between campaign politics and foreign policy do not reassure that the world's major power can produce leaders with the vision and experience to effectively manage America's international engagement. Yet despite political dysfunction, our presidents have shown skill in learning on the job and using our substantial national resources in the service of the security and international interests of the United States. -- Richard H. Solomon, former director of policy planning and assistant secretary of state, former president of the United States Institute of Peace, and senior fellow at the RAND Corporation Drawing on careful study as well as his own rich experience as a diplomat, Michael H. Armacost offers unique and nuanced insights. This is a superb discussion of U.S. foreign policy in the context of presidential politics since the elections of 1948. With less than two years to go before our next presidential contest, this is an especially timely and thoughtful read. -- John Negroponte, former deputy secretary of state ...fascinating study... Publishers Weekly Readers will find this a useful, accessible survey of the topic, enriched by Armacost's firsthand recollections from his diplomatic career. Library Journal Don't miss this thought-provoking read that places American politics in a uniquely global context. Biographile A readable, balanced, and detailed account. Choice
Table of ContentsAcknowledgments Introduction 1. Elections, Parties, and Politics 2. Quest for the Nomination: Appealing to the Base 3. Campaigns: Opportunities and Challenges for Incumbents 4. Campaigns: Opportunities and Obstacles for Challengers 5. Presidential Transitions 6. Launching a Presidential Term Conclusion Notes Index
