In this carefully researched and highly readable biography, Sanford D. Horwitt paints a vivid picture not only of one of the most progressive members of the United States Senate, but also of the America which shaped him.
Russ Feingold grew up Jewish in small town in Wisconsin in the 1950’s when “life was sweet, simple and comfortable.” Horwitt describes him as “a renegade by nature” who, when he was just seven years old, announced that he wanted to be the first Jewish president. While he has yet to fulfill that ambition, Feingold’s career includes a Rhodes Scholarship to Oxford, a degree from Harvard Law School and service in the Wisconsin State Legislature prior to his election to the United States Senate in 1992.
Like his hero, “Fighting” Bob LaFolette, who personified the Progressive Era in the early 20th century, Russ Feingold has the courage to follow his convictions even when they run counter to the leadership of his party. This is exemplified by the McCain- Feingold Bill which reformed campaign financing, his consistent opposition to the Iraq War, his vote against the Patriot Act and his outspoken criticism of many Bush administration policies.
At a time when many Democrats feel their party has lost its way, Howitt believes “Feingold represents a serious, genuine alternative to his party’s Washington establishment.”
