First published 2012
Stanley Kurtz argues that Barack Obama's casual remark to Joe the Plumber about spreading wealth around reveals a deeper agenda. The author contends that Obama's administration has quietly developed plans for major wealth redistribution that would primarily impact suburban middle class families rather than the wealthy one percent. Kurtz claims that former community organizers and allies from Obama's early career continue to influence policy from behind the scenes. These advisors view suburbs as sources of inequality and want cities to absorb surrounding communities through merged school districts and redistributed public funds. The author traces connections between Obama's community organizing background and current policies, suggesting that regulatory changes already implemented serve as groundwork for more dramatic future reforms. Kurtz warns that suburban independence would disappear as urban areas gain control over neighboring municipalities. He argues that media focus on healthcare, unemployment, and budget issues has obscured these redistribution plans, which Obama allegedly keeps quiet to avoid alienating moderate voters before reelection.
Genres: business, american, political-science, politics, economics, non-fiction, 21st-century, american-history
Vibes: thought-provoking
Tropes: conspiracy-theory
Setting: United States
Period: 21st Century
240 pages · Hardcover · Sentinel