The American political environment of 1896 resembles that of 2017: a rapidly changing electorate affected by a growing immigrant population, an uncertain economy disrupted by new technologies, growing income inequality, and contentious issues that the two parties could not resolve. Here political analyst Karl Rove posits that William McKinley found ways to address these challenges and win the presidency, risking a split in his own party as he reached out to Catholic leaders and advocated for black voting rights. In addition to chronicling McKinley's tense electoral struggle with the populist William Jennings Bryan, Rove also extracts lessons from the election that still apply today.

"Rove proves himself a surprisingly nimble and adept writer, juxtaposing shrewd political analysis with narrative verve. He expertly breaks down the challenges of McKinley's 1896 campaign, which he calls 'the first modern presidential primary campaign'.... A well-informed and researched dissection of McKinley's overlooked influence."—Kirkus Reviews