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NPR's Book of the Day

'At War with Ourselves' and 'Broken Open' are memoirs chronicling internal conflict

Sep 13, 2024
H. R. McMaster, former National Security Adviser, shares insights from his tumultuous time in the Trump administration, discussing political infighting and the complexities of U.S. foreign policy. He reflects on the three types of people he encountered and speculates on a potential second Trump presidency. Meanwhile, William Cope Moyers, a recovery advocate with 35 years of sobriety, opens up about the challenges of maintaining recovery amidst personal struggles with addiction, especially during times of crisis and the importance of community support.
17:08

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Quick takeaways

  • H.R. McMaster's memoir reveals the complexities of navigating political infighting within the Trump administration while influencing foreign policy decisions.
  • William Cope Moyers shares his ongoing struggle with sobriety, emphasizing the critical need for accessible addiction treatment and support systems for recovery.

Deep dives

Navigating Politics and Personal Challenges

H.R. McMaster's memoir explores his experiences during the Trump administration, addressing the complexities of working with a divisive president and his team. He reflects on his overconfidence in his ability to bridge gaps within the administration, particularly regarding relationships with influential figures like Rex Tillerson and James Mattis, who viewed him as an extension of Trump. McMaster highlights the challenges he faced in coordinating foreign policy under a president who was at times surrounded by individuals driven by their own agendas. Despite these hurdles, he acknowledges that the administration achieved some meaningful advancements in foreign policy, underscoring the lasting effects of their decisions on global relations.

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