This book would not have been possible without the support and encouragement of my family and friends. Giving on-air support and off-air guidance, Raymond Arroyo was critical to getting this done. Craig Shirley’s insights kept me thinking and refining my work. Chris Edwards kept me laughing and sane when I most needed it. Pete Anthony led our media company, LifeZette, which reached new key milestones as I was writing.
My biggest cheerleaders were Chuck and Ina Carlsen, whom I miss every day. The Cipollones always made my family feel at home during deadline pressure. Pat’s counsel was, as usual, spot-on. Dear friends Gay and Stanley Gaines, Conrad and Barbara Black, Jon and Sarah Talcott, and George and Sarah Vassiliou have helped me keep my perspective during these tumultuous times. As always my “big bro” Jimmy was there any time I needed to talk. Thanks also to Ramin Oskoui, MD, who helped me with his discerning eye and free market approach. Going back to 1994, Stephen Vaughn has provided key insights into the key issues that fueled the populist wave.
My hard-working radio team of James Coluccio and Drew Carmichael and assistants Karolina Wilson and Alexis Papa were instrumental in steadying the ship during this hectic time.
The team at Fox News—especially Sean Hannity and Bret Baier—were most generous in showcasing my analysis during the exciting 2016 campaign.
My talented researcher and collaborator, Wynton Hall, never doubted this book’s importance as part of the historical record of the 2016 campaign and populism. I am grateful to my editor, Adam Bellow, at St. Martins—it’s been a long road since we both appeared on the cover of The New York Times Magazine.
Finally, my children, Maria, Dmitri & Nikolai, kept me grounded and smiling. I love you.