Senator John Kennedy from Louisiana brings his sharp wit and trial lawyer expertise to the conversation. He humorously shares that the Senate resembles junior high, teeming with egos and drama. Kennedy's comedic roasts of colleagues, including hilarious anecdotes about his cross-examinations, reveal the absurdities of political nominations. He critiques Washington's lack of common sense and emphasizes that storytelling is key in politics. With insights from his book, he hopes to demystify the Senate and connect with everyday Americans.
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Southern Wit On Full Display
John Kennedy opened with self-deprecating humor about his preferred book title and roasted Ted Cruz at a fundraiser.
His jokes landed with wealthy donors and set the tone for his comedic persona in Washington.
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Cross-Exams That End Nominations
Kennedy recounted devastating Judiciary Committee cross-examinations that exposed nominees' ignorance of constitutional basics.
One nominee quit after failing to identify Article V and Article II during his questioning.
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A Cross-Exam That Pulled A Nomination
Kennedy told the story of a Trump nominee whose nomination was withdrawn after Kennedy's harsh cross-examination.
President Trump called Kennedy afterward and agreed the nominee wasn't qualified.
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Kennedy is a "Southern trial lawyer with a sharp wit", often underestimated due to his accent and folksy demeanor.
He’s known for devastating cross-examinations of judicial nominees, both Democrat and Republican.
His humor is often biting and irreverent, with jokes about colleagues like Chuck Schumer, Mitch McConnell, and even Ted Cruz.
2. Behind-the-Scenes Senate Culture
Kennedy compares the Senate to junior high school, full of cliques, egos, and petty drama.
He shares stories of interactions with nominees who failed basic constitutional knowledge.
The book aims to demystify the Senate and show how disconnected Washington can be from everyday Americans.
3. Critique of Washington
Kennedy argues that Washington lacks common sense, and that change is only possible by removing entrenched interests (“pigs out of the creek”).
He emphasizes the importance of storytelling in politics, using humor to make serious points.
4. Praise and Promotion
Cruz and Ferguson praise Kennedy’s storytelling and comedic timing.
The book is a very giftable item, especially for those with conservative leanings or frustrations with Washington.
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Verdict with Ted Cruz 