New York Times political columnist Jamelle Bouie joins Elliott Kalan and Roman Mars to discuss Part 3 of The Power Broker. They cover topics such as the reform movement, the rise of Al Smith, the life and political career of Al Smith, the need for parks in New York, and the strategic deviousness of Robert Moses as he writes a law to gain power.
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Quick takeaways
Robert Moses uses his research, advice, and companionship to effectively navigate the political landscape in New York.
Robert Moses strategically writes laws and grants himself power to shape the future of parks in New York.
The idea of creating parks gains public support due to the increasing urbanization and industrialization, fueling the demand for accessible recreational spaces.
Robert Moses identifies the vast, unused land on Long Island as an opportunity to develop parks and parkways, connecting people with nature.
Deep dives
Al Smith's Rise to Power
Al Smith, a self-made man from the Irish tenements, becomes a powerful figure in New York politics. He develops relationships with reformers and is praised for his commitment to the rights of workers and the poor. As governor, Smith relies on Robert Moses as his legislative researcher and right-hand man.
Robert Moses's Transformation
Robert Moses, previously a reformer and advocate for good government, becomes aligned with Al Smith and the Tammany machine. He turns a statewide reform organization into a pro-Smith propaganda machine. Moses prioritizes results over truth and scorn's those who value idealism above all else.
The Influence of Jimmy Walker
Jimmy Walker, a Democratic senator and future mayor of New York, is close friends with Moses during this period. Moses stands next to Walker as an assistant and advisor, despite Walker's reputation for corruption. Moses carries out the role of a political insider, providing research and guidance to Walker and Al Smith.
Moses's Role in Smith's Administration
Although Moses does not hold an official position in the state government, he effectively functions as a key member of Al Smith's inner circle. His research, advice, and companionship are highly valued by Smith and allow him to navigate the political landscape effectively.
Robert Moses gains power by writing the laws himself
At the age of 35, Robert Moses becomes the President of the Long Island State Park Commission and establishes the State Council of Parks. He strategically writes the law to consolidate power and secure his position, including granting himself a longer term than the governor and control over budget preparation. Moses cleverly hides clauses and uses existing laws to expand the authority of the parks council. He exerts his influence and skill in drafting bills to ensure the success of his ambitious vision for parks and parkways. With the stroke of a pen, Moses gains immense power and sets in motion his plan to reshape New York.
Building parks becomes a public priority
The idea of creating parks and recreational spaces gains widespread public support. People are eager to have access to open spaces and leisure activities. The demand for parks grows as urbanization and industrialization increase. This desire is fueled by the loss of natural landscapes and the need for outdoor recreation. However, existing land is either privately owned by wealthy individuals or in the hands of local associations. The lack of road infrastructure and poor accessibility hinder public access to potential park areas. The challenge lies in acquiring the necessary land and developing the infrastructure to make parks accessible to the general public.
Robert Moses uncovers hidden parkland in Long Island
While exploring Long Island, Robert Moses discovers vast stretches of unused and untouched land. He realizes the potential for creating parks in this area. With 3,500 acres of available land within 30 miles of Manhattan, Moses envisions a comprehensive park system and identifies Jones Beach as a prime location for a world-class bathing beach. He becomes deeply immersed in surveying the area by land and boat, studying maps, and drawing imaginary parkway lines. Moses realizes the opportunity to develop parks and parkways on Long Island, connecting people with nature and providing recreational spaces for them to enjoy.
Robert Moses consolidates power and sets the stage for park development
As President of the Long Island State Park Commission and head of the State Council of Parks, Robert Moses secures his authority and control over park development. He writes laws and legislation to establish the commission and grants himself significant decision-making power in budgeting and land use. Moses strategically forms alliances with existing park managers, gaining their support for his vision. He becomes a master of bureaucratic maneuvering, ensuring that he has the influence and autonomy to shape the future of parks in New York. Armed with power and a clear plan, Moses is ready to transform the city's landscape through park development.
This is the second official episode, breaking down the 1974 Pulitzer Prize winning book, The Power Broker by our hero Robert Caro.
New York Times political columnist Jamelle Bouie is our book club guest.
On today’s show, Elliott Kalan and Roman Mars will cover Part 3 of the book (Chapters 6 through the end of Chapter 10), discussing the major story beats and themes, with occasional asides from Jamelle Bouie guiding us through the politics of the era.
