Jessica Tarlov Knihy

A comprehensive look at the decline of the United States offers non-ideological remedies on how to overcome national self-doubt, reclaim optimism, and secure a prosperous future for American citizens.

Originally published as: The Russia-China axis. With a new preface.

"America's future has never seemed more uncertain. Our politics are dysfunctional; our cultural cohesion is a thing of the past; our institutions have lost legitimacy; and our identity as Americans seems increasingly subordinate to tribal or ideological identities. Overhanging all these issues is a loss of confidence in democracy itself, both in America and around the world, and the concomitant rise of authoritarianism as a viable model of governance in the eyes of millions. At the center of this story are two nations--Russia and China--that together stand as a profound challenge to the American and Western future, and to the future of democracy and human rights around the globe. As America unravels, China and Russia have taken every opportunity to expand their opportunities and consolidate their gains. If the United States is to prevail in this struggle, our efforts must begin with a better understanding of our determined adversaries in Beijing and Moscow--and of how their successes have emboldened the cause of authoritarianism around the world, to the detriment of free societies and free people." --Amazon.com

Political consultant Doug Schoen has been the power-behind-the-throne to Presidents, Prime Ministers and even a politician-priest whose brother was a mafia boss. He helped Bill Clinton win re-election and navigate the Monica Lewinsky scandal. He conducted the first-ever presidential poll for Donald Trump - in 1987! He guided Michael Bloomberg to three terms as Mayor of New York. Three of his clients - Israeli leaders Yitzhak Rabin, Shimon Peres and Menachem Begin - won the Nobel Peace Prize. But two - Rabin and Yugoslav politician Zoran Djindjic - were assassinated. Here Schoen reveals the 50 truths of power he has learned in his prestigious career as a "Political Insider," the title of his long-running Fox-TV show. It is a book for grown-ups. Power is a serious business. Good decisions can change your world - but bad decisions can too

There is a great deal to learn in studying the successes and failures of Presidents Kennedy, Nixon, Biden, and Trump, four presidents whose administrations coincided with dramatic societal changes and challenges. This book is a warning that our democratic form of government is in danger of collapsing and being replaced by an authoritarian state. Douglas E. Schoen keenly analyzes the presidencies of Kennedy, Nixon, Biden, and Trump through the lenses of political polarization, election campaigns, their early lives, their changing administrations, the role of fast-changing media, the impact of shifting racial relations, the drama of increasingly divisive immigration issues, and America’s evolving defense and foreign policy. Schoen uses these comparative analyses to create a masterful plan to unite America and save our democracy. His important suggestions include political reforms that support equality, improved education, and job training. He advocates for greater access to healthcare and compulsory national service. The plan encourages less partisan and divisive media and encourages the export of American ideals rather than American military power.