Tip and the Gipper

When Politics Worked

By: Chris Matthews

Narrated by: Chris Matthews

The New York Times bestseller about the historic dealings between Ronald Reagan and Tip O’Neill—“A superb tribute to the neglected art of compromise” (Daily News (New York)).

Tip and the Gipper is an “entertaining and insightful” (The Wall Street Journal) history of a time when two great political opponents served together for the benefit of the country. Chris Matthews was an eyewitness to this story as top aide to Speaker of the House Tip O’Neill, who waged a principled war of political ideals with President Ronald Reagan from 1980 to 1986. Together, the two men became one of history’s most celebrated political pairings—the epitome of how ideological opposites can get things done.

When Reagan was elected to the presidency in a landslide victory over Jimmy Carter, Speaker O’Neill was thrust into the national spotlight as the highest-ranking leader of the Democratic Party—the most visible and respected challenger to President Reagan’s agenda of cutting the size of government programs and lowering tax rates. Together, the two leaders fought over the major issues of the day—welfare, taxes, covert military operations, and social security—but found their way to agreements that reformed taxes, saved Social Security, and, their common cause, set a course towardpeace in Northern Ireland. Through it all they maintained respect for each other’s positions and worked to advance the country rather than obstruct progress.

At the time of congressional gridlock, Tip and the Gipper stands as model behavior worthy of study by journalists, academics, and students of the political process for years to come. “This book is an invitation to join Tip and the Gipper in tall tales about how grand it was in the old country” (The Washington Post).

Great bio and political background info

Should definitely read if interested in knowing how it could be/once was without too much biased undertone

Thank you Mr Matthew’s

I came of age in the 80s, just missing the opportunity to cast my first vote for a president to Ronald Reagan. However that didn’t stop me from forming my ideologies and political beliefs in such a way, that allowed me to consider myself a card carrying “Reagan” Republican to this day.

Through high school debate and experiences in college, and later with a close supervisor at work, I gained the ability to listen to the other side and not just dismiss their proposals simply because they were from the left.

I had never been sure where that ability came from, but thanks to Chris’s writing I think I know. I believe it was from watching and learning from two icons in American politics how it can and should be done.

So much so, when I first saw this book pop up on my feed I could only be intrigued by what an outspoken media liberal such as Chris Matthew’s would have to say about this time in our countries history.

I truly give Mr Matthew’s high marks for this book. I believe it to be fair and actually quite complimentary to all those involved, regardless of success or failure or political leaning.

At the end of the book I actually shed a tear, as he recounts President Reagan’s final address to our country. That tear was as much about his goodbye to us as Americans, as it also now appears to be a farewell to the dignified manner in which our country is run.

God, what will it take for our nations leaders to return to civility and dignity? Please share this book, and begin demanding more “Tip & Gip” like behavior from our elected officials.

great insight into two titans of American politics

Matthews gives a balanced assement of these men's strengths and weaknesses. the book does no lean politically which is refreshing. reliving great historical moments is exciting and interesting now that you see what was happening behind the scenes. as a bonus Matthews gives an inside baseball look at other famous politicians of that time with humor and wit.

Great Story!

How could the performance have been better?

Chris is not the greatest narrator. He makes no effort to change his voice as the characters change, which made it difficult - at times - to determine who was speaking. His voice is not crisp, which was annoying at times as I tried to distinguish certain words.

Any additional comments?

Great story about how politics used to work. This is particularly relevant given the ugly condition that we have in Washington now. Chris had a great perspective in his role with Tip which adds significant credibility to the story.

Excellent

Chris Matthews captivated me from the beginning through the end of this wonderfully entertaining book. Many times I felt that I was right there in the room the way he vividly recalled certain events.

After listening to this book, I have new found respect for many of the politicians of that era.