How to Test Negative for Stupid: And Why Washington Never Will

John Kennedy is both insider and outsider of Washington. He is an unvarnished senator, breaking unspoken rules and bringing up uncomfortable topics. The book is his commentary on realities of political life. It’s worth the read just for “one day in the life of a senator” and refresher on state elections and immense power of unelected staff.

While I enjoy sarcasm and dry humor, marketing positioning of this book as “hilarious” distracts from the value. Kennedy’s one-sentence witty descriptions of well-known political figures make them more relatable, adding personality to political news.

Despite being an easy read, it feels like multiple books squeezed into 186 pages. It’s an autobiography, it’s a statement of position and values that almost feels like a pre-election run, it’s a commentary on the modern state of discourse in politics, it’s a hope for the future. Each of these themes could have been a separate book that I would have gladly read.

John Kennedy’s explanation of his political evolution was revealing. He stated that his position on issues have not changed, but parties shifted so drastically, he found himself naturally aligned with Republicans. This explanation means that political parties do not have a long term fixed set of values and their label is a marketing shortcut.

The label is important because “Us vs Them” is how you win. It’s difficult to get to know the actual public person within a short pre-election window; a label simplifies the vote selection.

Is Louisiana-style nonpartisan blanket primary a better solution? Regardless, it’s worth to re-examine your own alignment to ensure accuracy of your vote.