New Books in Economics

Tevi Troy, "The Power and the Money: The Epic Clashes Between Commanders in Chief and Titans of Industry" (Regnery History, 2024)

Oct 16, 2024

Tevi Troy, an acclaimed presidential historian and former senior White House aide, explores the intense interactions between U.S. presidents and corporate titans in his new book. He dives into historical clashes, shedding light on figures like Rockefeller and Ford, and how they shaped politics and policy. Troy reveals how CEOs have become crucial in the regulatory landscape, influencing decisions with their alliances or confrontations with presidents. The conversation also touches on the evolving role of media moguls and technology in political campaigning.

44:28

Episode guests

Tevi Troy

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

The podcast explores the evolving dynamics between U.S. presidents and CEOs, illustrating how influential executives shape policy while facing scrutiny.

It also highlights the role of media figures like Oprah Winfrey as political influencers, demonstrating the power beyond traditional corporate leadership in modern politics.

Deep dives

The Relationship Between CEOs and Presidents

The podcast focuses on the intricate relationships between U.S. presidents and prominent CEOs throughout American history. It highlights how these interactions have shaped both politics and business, noting that key figures such as Rockefeller, Morgan, and Ford had significant influences on the political landscape while navigating complex relationships with presidents. For instance, Rockefeller's creation of Standard Oil not only made him a powerful industrialist but also raised public and political scrutiny during his interactions with presidents like Garfield. The discussion emphasizes the enduring tension between business leaders seeking to shape policy and politicians wary of being too closely tied to corporate interests.

Intro

2min

CEOs and Presidents: A Chaotic Nexus

14min

Presidential Alliances: The Interplay Between Commanders in Chief and Media Moguls

4min

Media Moguls and Political Power

13min

The Evolution of Political Campaigning in the Digital Age

3min

CEOs and Political Power

6min

When U.S. presidents clash with corporate titans, what tips the balance of power?

In The Power and the Money: The Epic Clashes Between Commanders in Chief and Titans of Industry (Regnery History, 2024), acclaimed presidential historian Tevi Troy takes readers on a riveting journey through the biggest battles between CEOs and the nation's commander in chief. He unearths the untold stories - both political and personal - that have shaped America.

Troy shows how the vast reach of the federal government become a critical fact of life for every business, entrepreneur, and innovator. Today, companies find themselves navigating a competitive landscape defined by stringent regulations, so top CEOs and key business leaders must influence the legislative and regulatory system. As public affairs teams and government relations experts put forward strategies to survive Washington, CEOs have become the most important warrior on the frontlines. The Power and the Money shows how some of the nation's most important CEOs forged (and fumbled) relationships with the president.

Troy also shows how the most powerful man in the world depends on CEOs. CEOs provide assistance in the form of personnel, policy insights, and campaign cash, but they also become essential foils for presidents, serving as both allies and convenient enemies.

The Power and the Money reveals an intricate web of power, where CEOs need presidents, and presidents need CEOs. Troy shows how each must step carefully - or risk unpredictable costs and collateral damage. From heavyweights John D. Rockefeller and Mark Zuckerberg to Katherine Graham, Elon Musk, and more, Troy takes readers inside the friendships and the conflicts that shook the American economy and re-shaped America.

Drawing on his experiences as bestselling historian and former senior White House aide, Troy offers unique insights and details that shed light on the growing, intertwining behemoths of government and big business - and what it means for the future of our nation.

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