Politicians, Partisans, and Parasites
| Company type | Book |
|---|---|
| Industry | Publishing |
| Founded | 2003 |
| Founder | Tucker Carlson |
| Products | Nonfiction book |
| Parent | Grand Central Publishing |
Politicians, Partisans, and Parasites: My Adventures in Cable News is a nonfiction work authored by journalist and political analyst Tucker Carlson, released through Warner Books (currently known as Grand Central Publishing). In this book, Carlson narrates his initiation into the realm of cable news and offers his perspectives on influential figures such as George W. Bush, Jesse Jackson, Ralph Nader, and John McCain.
The author reflects on his shift from print media to television commentary, portraying the cable news industry as more dynamic than other fields and emphasizing how he entered it with minimal difficulty. The narrative includes his reporting on McCain's 2000 presidential run, memorable interactions with various public personalities, and a difficult working relationship with a CNN producer he refers to as "Don."
Publishers Weekly commended the book for its entertaining qualities, particularly appealing to political followers who will enjoy its humor. Meanwhile, the Washingtonian acknowledged Carlson’s sharp wit despite differing political views, describing it as an engaging read even for those who oppose his stance.
Contents
In the opening of Politicians, Partisans, and Parasites, Carlson cites a remark from Larry King at the 2000 Democratic National Convention: "The trick is to care, but not too much. Give a shit — but not really." He then narrates his unplanned entry into television punditry, beginning with an eleventh-hour invitation to report on the O. J. Simpson murder case for 48 Hours, despite having "just about nothing" prior knowledge of the case.
Carlson recounts significant career events leading up to the book’s release, including facing and refuting a rape allegation made by Kimberly Carter in Indiana, which resulted in a polygraph examination and eventual dismissal of charges. He also emphasizes his role as a conservative commentator during the 2000 vice presidential debates, where he debated against Bill Press. This performance caught the attention of CNN executives and contributed to the launch of the short-lived program The Spin Room. Carlson blames the show's downfall on a producer he dubs "Don," whom he characterizes as insecure and arrogant.
Ultimately, Carlson earned a position on Crossfire, recalling that his initial encounter with James Carville—which he terms "Carville’s Prison Chow Line Moment"—helped establish mutual respect between them. Reflecting on his early political reporting, Carlson speaks favorably about John McCain during the 2000 Republican Party presidential primaries, though he expresses regret over becoming too closely aligned with McCain’s campaign, noting that some journalists began sympathizing with its objectives, quoting their sentiment: "I hope we kill Bush."