Witness Power

Author: David Gergen
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-04-01
Features: From Nixon to Clinton, from the Watergate scandal to the Whitewater scandal, few Americans have had the opportunity to witness the rise and fall of several presidents firsthand over the past 30 years like David Gergen. He has served as an advisor to four presidents, including both Republicans and Democrats. He presents vivid behind-the-scenes scenes, describing the struggles they faced while exercising power, and summarizes the key lessons and insights for future leaders from their experiences. In the opening of Witness to Power, David Gergen recalls that at the age of 30, he led the White House speechwriting team during the Nixon administration. This young man was well-versed in the Watergate scandal. He analyzes what propelled Nixon to the pinnacle of politics and what brought him down, leaving him shattered. Gergen states that at the dawn of the 21st century, the United States of America is moving toward a new era filled with promise, and the success of the new generation of top leadership will largely determine its realization. Based on his personal experiences in the White House, he offers seven commandments to future leaders, believing they must possess: inner qualities, noble and inspiring core objectives, the ability to persuade others, the skill to collaborate with systems, a solid and swift start, a strong and efficient team, and the ability to motivate others to fulfill their missions. Witness to Power inherits the style tradition of Richard Neustadt's Presidential Power and the Modern Presidency, serving as an unvarnished yet authoritative guide to the art of leadership.