[Abridged] Presidential Histories 26.C.) Teddy Roosevelt, the press, and the bully pulpit; an interview with Harold Holzer
Apr 4, 2022
In this enlightening discussion, Harold Holzer, Director of the Roosevelt House Public Policy Institute and author of The President vs. the Press, delves into Theodore Roosevelt's groundbreaking relationship with the media. Roosevelt revolutionized presidential PR, skillfully using the press to mold his image and promote progressive policies. Holzer highlights how Roosevelt's tactics, from engaging with muckrakers to hosting unique press conferences, reshaped the dynamics of political communication, paving the way for future presidents and their media strategies.
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Perfect Fit For The News Era
- Theodore Roosevelt matched a modernizing press and exploited headlines to become newsworthy.
- His personality and timing made him the perfect president for the emerging news era.
On-Scene Policing Built Press Ties
- As New York police commissioner Roosevelt showed up at crime scenes and befriended reporters like Lincoln Steffens.
- He used those on-scene moments to build press relationships and shape his public image.
From Headlines To Policy Collaboration
- Roosevelt shifted from courting reporters to partnering with magazine journalists to promote progressive policy.
- He read drafts, shared speeches, and harnessed muckraking to advance his agenda.
