New York Journalists Discuss '2024 Election' at Clinton School, According to The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Journalists Josh Dawsey and Tyler Pager Discuss Their New Book at the Clinton School of Public Service
On Wednesday, approximately 215 community members gathered at the Clinton School of Public Service in Little Rock, Arkansas, to listen to a conversation between journalists Josh Dawsey and Tyler Pager. The event, moderated by James L. 'Skip' Rutherford III, dean emeritus at the Clinton School, was the culmination of a long-awaited visit for the duo.
Dawsey, a senior White House reporter at The Wall Street Journal, and Pager, a White House correspondent at The New York Times, have been covering Washington politics and the country for years. In their new book, titled '2024: How Trump Retook the White House and the Democrats Lost America', they delve into the events that led to the current political climate.
The narrative of the book begins in August 2022 with the FBI's search of Mar-a-Lago for classified documents. The authors spent countless hours researching and interviewing sources to provide a comprehensive account of the political landscape.
Pager found it particularly fascinating to see figures he knew from the Biden and Harris campaigns who were part of Clinton's campaign and White House staff. He expressed that it has a different feel to connect with people in person, which was complemented by the 'fantastic crowd and venue' on Wednesday night.
Dawsey was told by a mutual friend that Little Rock would bring a fun and exciting crowd. He praised Pager and himself as two of the most talented reporters covering Washington politics and the country. They both have known Josh Dawsey and Tyler Pager for a long time.
The conversation was marked by a nonpartisan environment, as emphasized by Victoria M. DeFrancesco Soto, dean of the Clinton School. The book, she said, is highly relevant to understanding the current political climate.
Thomas Franklin 'Mack' McLarty III, former chief of staff under President Bill Clinton, also attended the event. Judd Deere, a former deputy press secretary under President Trump, was also present.
Pager spent his first trip to Arkansas exploring the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum. However, there are no search results providing information about what particularly impressed him during his visit.
Patrick Newton, director of marketing and communications at the school, expressed hope that audience members would develop a desire to read the book. He mentioned that it takes plenty of work and preparation to come to an event in person.
James L. 'Skip' Rutherford III, dean emeritus at the Clinton School, skillfully moderated the conversation, ensuring that it flowed smoothly and covered all aspects of the book. The event was a great success, with both authors expressing their gratitude for the warm welcome they received in Little Rock.