Why people recommend it
What It Takes by Richard Ben Cramer is a comprehensive chronicle of the 1988 United States presidential election that delves deeply into the characters, backgrounds, and motivations of the candidates. The book is widely regarded as a foundational text for understanding American politics and campaign strategies. Saagar Enjeti recommended the title on the Lex Fridman Podcast, pointing out that it offers valuable historical context on Joe Biden's 1988 campaign and his character. Similarly, Dan Pfeiffer praised the work on Pod Save America, describing it as an essential read for anyone who covers politics and noting its status as a quintessential campaign book that examines the inner workings of political strategy. Jill Abramson also discussed the book on The Book Review, citing it as an exemplary campaign text that provides detailed biographical insights into candidates during the primaries. Across these various podcasts, speakers emphasized the enduring value of Cramer's reporting, noting how the book captures the intense pressures of the presidential race and provides a rare, inside look at the human side of high-stakes American politics.
Who recommended it
- Dan Pfeiffer Recommended
- Saagar Enjeti Recommended
- Jill Abramson Discussed
Dan Pfeiffer — 2 mentions
“It was in the 1988 election where richard bryn kramer wrote what it takes the all-time greatest political campaign book”
“they're sort of like three books that have been read by every person who writes about American politics who covers Merah politics every politician is read Richard Ben Kramer is what it takes which the sort of the MOT the First's all of the inside the room like glorification of strategists like campaign trail books that are you know we”
Saagar Enjeti — 1 mention
“So, book recommendation, it's called "What It Takes." And it was written in 1988 and there's actually a long chapter on Joe Biden and about the plagiarism scandal.”
Jill Abramson — 1 mention
“and that would be you know Richard Ben Kramer's what it takes you know that just gives you almost a mini biography of all of the candidates beginning during the primaries”
Also mentioned in the same episodes
Other mentions (2: passing, ad reads, own books)
“the plagiarism joke probably killed with the 50 swing voters who have read what it takes”
“Yeah the uh the plagiarism joke probably killed with the 50 swing voters who have read what it takes uh speaking of killing swing voters like what are your plagiarism”