New Books in History David T. Beito, "FDR: A New Political Life" (Open Universe, 2025)
Nov 7, 2025
David T. Beito, a distinguished historian and professor emeritus, discusses his provocative book on Franklin D. Roosevelt. He reveals FDR's complex rise to power, marked by scandals and societal prejudices of his time. Beito explores the Newport sex scandal's impact on Roosevelt's life and career, his pragmatic approach to governance, and the New Deal's questionable origins. He sheds light on FDR's controversial banking policies and the unintended fallout from his ambitious regulatory efforts. Get ready for a deep dive into a multifaceted political legacy!
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Newport Sex Scandal And Entrapment
- David Beito describes FDR's role leading the Newport investigation that used entrapment to expose same-sex relations in the Navy.
- The Senate report blamed Roosevelt and the episode preceded his polio outbreak, affecting many sailors' lives and benefits.
Ends Over Means In Roosevelt's Politics
- Beito argues FDR prioritized ends over means, reflecting a Hamiltonian strain in his progressivism.
- This explains Roosevelt's willingness to authorize severe measures when pursuing political goals.
FDR Pushed Legal Limits But Faced Bureaucratic Pushback
- Beito contends FDR pushed constitutional limits and sought to suppress pre-war dissent and critical newspapers.
- Strong internal pushback from officials like Francis Biddle often restrained Roosevelt's more aggressive plans.
