The Eighteen-Day Running Mate

In this enlightening audiobook, Joshua M. Glasser delves into the dramatic rise and fall of Thomas Eagleton, the Democratic vice-presidential nominee under George McGovern, whose campaign faced turmoil following revelations of his mental health history shortly after his nomination. Through interviews with key figures and extensive records, Glasser explores the internal dynamics of the campaign, the impact of societal attitudes toward mental illness, and how personal ambitions influenced critical decisions during this tumultuous period in American politics. The narrative not only recounts Eagleton's brief candidacy but also reflects on the historical context of 1972, drawing parallels to contemporary challenges.