Description
Book Synopsis: The only man to serve as president and chief justice, who approached every decision in constitutional terms, defending the Founders’ vision against new populist threats to American democracy.
William Howard Taft never wanted to be president and yearned instead to serve as chief justice of the United States. But despite his ambivalence about politics, the former federal judge found success in the executive branch as governor of the Philippines and secretary of war, and he won a resounding victory in the presidential election of 1908 as Theodore Roosevelt’s handpicked successor.
In this provocative assessment, Jeffrey Rosen reveals Taft’s crucial role in shaping how America balances populism against the rule of law. Taft approached each decision as president by asking whether it comported with the Constitution, seeking to put Roosevelt’s activist executive orders on firm legal grounds. But unlike Roosevelt, who thought the president could do anything the Constitution didn’t forbid, Taft insisted he could do only what the Constitution explicitly allowed. This led to a dramatic breach with Roosevelt in the historic election of 1912, which Taft viewed as a crusade to defend the Constitution against the demagogic populism of Roosevelt and Woodrow Wilson.
Nine years later, Taft achieved his lifelong dream when President Warren Harding appointed him chief justice, and during his years on the Court he promoted consensus among the justices and transformed the judiciary into a modern, fully equal branch. Though he had chafed in the White House as a judicial president, he thrived as a presidential chief justice.
Details
Looking for a fascinating read about American history and presidential politics? Look no further than "William Howard Taft: The American Presidents Series: The 27th President, 1909-1913." This book provides a captivating account of Taft's journey from a reluctant president to a venerable chief justice. With an emphasis on constitutional principles, Taft defended the Founders' vision against emerging populist threats, leaving an indelible mark on American democracy.
In "William Howard Taft," Jeffrey Rosen skillfully portrays Taft's unique approach to the presidency. While his predecessor, Theodore Roosevelt, embraced an expansive view of executive power, Taft believed in strictly adhering to the Constitution. He carefully evaluated each decision, ensuring it aligned with the principles laid out by the Founding Fathers. This commitment to the rule of law set Taft apart and made him a formidable figure in American history.
One of the most significant moments in Taft's political career was the election of 1912, where he faced off against Roosevelt and Woodrow Wilson. Taft saw this election as a battle to safeguard the Constitution from the dangers of demagogic populism. His principled stance and unwavering commitment earned him admiration from those who valued the integrity of the nation's governing document.
Beyond his presidency, Taft's true calling came when he became the chief justice of the United States. Appointed by President Warren Harding, Taft transformed the judiciary into a modern and fully equal branch. By promoting consensus among the justices, he solidified the role of the Supreme Court as a pillar of American democracy.
Immerse yourself in the compelling story of William Howard Taft, a president who prioritized the rule of law and defended the principles on which America was built. Discover how this remarkable man left an indelible impact on the country and its constitutional legacy. Don't miss out on this thought-provoking read. Get your copy of "William Howard Taft: The American Presidents Series: The 27th President, 1909-1913" today and embark on a journey through American political history.
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