We’re only on episode two, and we already have a fantastic Alumni Spotlight episode to share! Last month, Steven Stacey (AZ-2003) visited one of our most notable members in Austin. Karl Rove represented Utah in 1969, and shared some fantastic stories with us about his storied career. He also confirms that he did indeed catch what he calls “Potomac Fever” on his first trip to Washington.
In this episode, Mr. Rove talks about his early years in school in Utah, his memories of the US Senate Youth Program, and his service in the White House as the Deputy Chief of Staff for President George W. Bush. Along the way, you might hear an impression or two, stories from college campaigns, tails from the campaign trail, and you’ll likely notice more than a few familiar names, including Atwater, Stone, Manafort, Armitage, Libby, Comey, Wicker, and others.
Among the anecdotes, we focus on the big takeaways from Mr. Rove’s long career, including how he wound up working for the Chairman of the RNC and later his son (both of whom would later be elected President), and what he was really thinking about his choice to spend his career in politics as the Valerie Plame affair engulfed the White House. His memories of the moments that defined both campaigns and administrations are exciting to hear directly from the person in the room, including the one policy issue he wished the George W. Bush Administration had moved to tackle before social security reform, and who he says “left us all out to dry” when a special prosecutor came looking for answers.
Of particular interest to us was his answer to the question “Did you ever think of running for an office yourself?” In his self-effacing response, Mr. Rove draws a clear line between the people he knew earlier in life who planned their future electoral accomplishments out in advance, and the people who “went home and had lives.”
“These people were centered. They had a sense of community and service. They lived where they wanted to live, where they had family and friends.” In Mr. Rove’s telling, they were the ones who went on to be great public servants. Karl also has some excellent advice for our members – or anyone – who wants to get involved in public service, which he credits to his friend James Carville.
Finally, he shares with us a surprisingly meaningful connection that he made with senior Obama advisor David Axelrod back in 2010, after his memoir, Courage and Consequence, was published. We have a saying here at the USSYAA that there are “may paths to service,” and the story of his work with Mr. Axelrod is a great example of how the important things in life can bring anyone together.
Please enjoy listening to this interview, and subscribe to the Podcast so you don’t miss future episodes.
Our very grateful thanks to Mr. Rove for his time!
Listen to Episode 2 of the USSYAA Podcast here.
Thanks to Steven Stacey for recording this interview with Mr. Rove in Texas, and to Ryan Gavin (ME-2009) for editing and mixing.
