The Meanest Man in Congress

The meanest man in Congress was also the most successful in terms of passing legislation and bi-partisan leadership. The story of Jack Brooks’s colourful life and accomplishments, including his friendship with presidents and key political figures during the nearly 50 years he was in Congress, is told in this book.

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The meanest man in Congress was also the most successful in terms of passing legislation and bi-partisan leadership. The story of Jack Brooks's colorful life and accomplishments, including his friendship with presidents and key political figures during the nearly 50 years he was in Congress, is told in this book.
— There is no existing biography on Jack Brooks — The message about Brooks's style of governance is timely — The Brooks family will help NewSouth secure attention for the book in political circles, including in D.C. — Political biographies remain popular
A native of Beaumont, Texas, and a World War II veteran, Jack Brooks served for forty-two years in the U.S. Congress, representing Texas’s 9th district. One of the most influential congressmen nobody ever heard of, Brooks is finally getting his due in this new biography, the first ever written about his life. The Meanest Man in Congress: Jack Brooks and the Making of an American Century chronicles in fascinating detail not only the career of a remarkable lawmaker, which spanned the tenures of ten U.S. presidents, but also the epic sweep of American history in the latter half of the 20th century, from the Kennedy assassination to the Iran-Contra affair.

Packed with anecdotes about the irascible Brooks based on his personal correspondence, interviews with his peers and family members, and more, this meticulous biography traces the incredible life and times of a true public servant, a man who applied his tenacious will to practical, across-the-aisle governance for the good of his constituents and his country. At a time when Brooks’s brand of selfless service is in short supply and American politics has become a zero-sum game, distinguished authors Timothy McNulty and Brendan McNulty bring into high relief the character of a man who knew how to compromise and bargain, negotiate and cooperate to get things done.