". . . not only reminds us that studies of presidential leadership of the public should not concurrently consider responsiveness, it also demonstrates various ways that presidents invoke public opinion in order to lead it. As the author himself calls for more research on this topic, I think that this book, and especially the specific case studies examined, may encourage both graduate students and scholars of presidential leadership to respond."--Matthew Eshbaugh-Soha, University of North Texas
--Matthew Eshbaugh-Soha, University of North Texas
"Drury explores "invoked public opinion" and he manner in which "modern presidents deploy references to the beliefs and values of US citizens in their national televised speechers" to either persuade or represent them. While acknowledging a sizable literature focused on the former, he urges scholars to pay more attention to the latter. In his analysis, the author considers the role of three common varieties of arguments: bandwagon, identity, and contra populum appeals that serve as correctives to public opinion. He then explores a number of case studies - including Nixon's 1969 Vietnamization appeal (bandwagon), Carters 1979 "crisis of confidence" speech (identity), and George W. Bush's 2005 defense of his Iraq policy (contra populum)--to explain how each type of appeal operates. To Drury, presidents must focus on both "leadership of" and "leadership by" public opinion, as persuading others and providing representation are both critical to effective leadership. Highly recommended." -- Choice-- "Choice" (12/10/2014 12:00:00 AM)
"Drury provides a footing for future scholars to ask questions about the representation of public opinion and how the public, politicians, and pundits invoke it in the digital age" --Rhetoric & Public Affairs
-- "Rhetoric & Public Affairs" (9/26/2016 12:00:00 AM)
"For well over two decades, a cross-disciplinary debate over the proper way of conceptualizing presidential rhetoric and its effects (or lack thereof) has raged sporadically, pitting humanists in communication and English departments against increasingly positivist political scientists. . . Speaking with the People's Voice: How Presidents Invoke Public Opinion is at once an example of a continuation of this trend and a work those who seek to transcend it should read and consider seriously."--Political Science Quarterly-- "Political Science Quarterly"