On Deaf Ears: The Limits of the Bully Pulpit

On Deaf Ears: The Limits of the Bully Pulpit by Edwards III, George C.. hardcover edition. ISBN: 9780300100099.

In this book, George Edwards analyzes the results of hundreds of public opinion polls from recent presidencies to assess the success of these efforts. Surprisingly, he finds that presidents typically are not able to change public opinion, even great, communicators usually fail to obtain the publics support for their high-priority initiatives. According to Edwards, the bully pulpit has proven infective not only for achieving majority support but also for increasing support from a smaller base. Focusing on presidents personae, their messages, and the American public, he explains why presidents are typically unable to move public opinion and suggests that their efforts to do so may be counterproductive. Edwards argues that shoring up previously existing support is the principal benefit to be gained from going public and that "staying private" - negotiating quietly with elites - may often be more conductive to a presidents legislative success.