Say We Won and Get Out

Main Themes and Topics

Say We Won and Get Out by Stephen C. Terry explores the bipartisan cooperation during a tumultuous period in American history, focusing on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee's efforts to curtail the expansion of the Vietnam War. The book delves into the partnership between George Aiken and Senate Majority Leader Mike Mansfield, showcasing their alliance from 1962 to 1975. This era is depicted as a time when bipartisan cooperation was possible amidst political and ideological turmoil. Additionally, the book provides an in-depth look at George D. Aiken's political philosophy and career, portraying him as a Progressive Republican who often went against the grain of his party's leadership to advocate for the interests of rural America and the welfare of low and middle-income citizens.

Writing Style and Tone

Stephen C. Terry employs a factual and engaging narrative that combines historical analysis with personal anecdotes, offering readers an insider's view of George Aiken's political alliances and strategies. Given Terry's position as Legislative Assistant to Senator Aiken, the book benefits from firsthand accounts and detailed descriptions. The tone is respectful and informative, with a focus on providing a balanced view of the political dynamics of the time. Terry's detailed attention to the personalities involved and the intricacies of their legislative efforts helps to bring the historical content to life for readers.

Brief Summary

Stephen C. Terry's Say We Won and Get Out details the political partnership between George Aiken and Mike Mansfield, who united to oppose the Vietnam War's escalation. Against a backdrop of shifting political landscapes, the book chronicles how these two figures, along with the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, worked to influence American foreign policy during the 1960s and 1970s. It intertwines this narrative with a biography of Aiken, detailing his rise from humble beginnings to a prominent U.S. Senator known for his maverick stances and advocacy for rural and lower-income populations. Aiken's life and career are examined to highlight his impact on American politics and policy.