First published 2011
David Freddoso examines how the Obama administration brought Chicago political methods to federal governance. The New York Times bestselling author documents how the White House used czars and recess appointments to bypass congressional oversight, installing bureaucrats with questionable backgrounds. Freddoso reveals how bankruptcy law was altered during the GM and Chrysler bailouts to benefit the United Autoworkers union. He shows how healthcare reform prioritized trial lawyer interests over cost reduction. The book details how the trillion dollar stimulus package primarily protected government employees rather than creating private sector jobs. Freddoso explores the green jobs initiative as a mechanism for directing taxpayer funds to preferred businesses. He documents administration pressure tactics against uncooperative private companies and state governments. The author traces these governance patterns to Obama's Chicago political background, arguing that constitutional principles were subordinated to reward political allies and penalize opponents.
Genres: business, political-science, politics, non-fiction, government, american-history
Vibes: thought-provoking
Tropes: investigative-journalism
Setting: Chicago, United States
Period: 21st-century
350 pages · Hardcover · Regnery