Joe Conason

Joe Conason is an influential American journalist, author, and political commentator who has shaped liberal political discourse since the 1980s. As founder and editor-in-chief of The National Memo, he oversees a significant platform for political news and commentary. His career includes prominent positions at major publications, most notably as executive editor of the New York Observer where he maintained a widely-read political column for nearly two decades. His work has appeared in many prestigious publications including The New York Times, The Washington Post, The New Yorker, and The Guardian. Conason has authored several notable books examining American politics and society, including "Big Lies" and "The Hunting of the President," the latter co-authored with Gene Lyons exploring the political opposition to Bill Clinton. His investigative reporting and commentary have consistently focused on power structures and political accountability in American democracy. His experience covering every American presidential election since 1980 has established him as a seasoned political observer, and his work has been recognized with awards including the New York Press Club's Byline Award. Based in New York City and educated at Brandeis University, he continues to be an active voice in political journalism.

Readers view Conason's work through a strong political lens, with reviews reflecting their existing political alignments. What readers liked: - Detail-rich reporting and thorough research, particularly in "The Hunting of the President" - Clear writing style that breaks down complex political topics - Documentation and sourcing of claims - Historical context provided for political events What readers disliked: - Perceived liberal bias and partisan tone - Focus on defending specific politicians rather than neutral analysis - Repetitive arguments across books - Limited exploration of opposing viewpoints Ratings: - "Big Lies" averages 3.8/5 on Goodreads (200+ ratings), 4.3/5 on Amazon (150+ reviews) - "The Hunting of the President" averages 3.9/5 on Goodreads (500+ ratings) - "It Can Happen Here" averages 3.7/5 on Goodreads (300+ ratings) One repeated reader comment notes his "meticulous research but clear political agenda." Conservative readers frequently cite "partisan blindness," while progressive readers praise his "careful documentation of right-wing tactics."

It Can Happen Here: Contemporary Totalitarianism in America (2007) Examines parallels between modern American politics and the rise of authoritarian movements in history, analyzing threats to democratic institutions.

Big Lies: The Right-Wing Propaganda Machine and How It Distorts the Truth (2003) Analyzes and critiques conservative media messaging and political communication strategies in American politics.

The Hunting of the President: The Ten-Year Campaign to Destroy Bill and Hillary Clinton (2000) Co-authored with Gene Lyons, documents organized political and media efforts against the Clintons during the 1990s.

The Raw Deal: How the Bush Republicans Plan to Destroy Social Security and the Legacy of the New Deal (2005) Details proposed changes to Social Security under the Bush administration and their potential impacts on the program.

Man of the World: The Further Endeavors of Bill Clinton (2016) Chronicles Bill Clinton's post-presidential activities, including his humanitarian work and global initiatives.

Gene Lyons co-authored with Conason and shares his focus on investigating political power dynamics and media coverage of the Clinton presidency. He wrote for multiple newspapers and magazines while maintaining similar analytical approaches to political journalism and commentary.

David Corn covers political investigations and conspiracy with emphasis on power structures in Washington. His work at Mother Jones and his books on political deception parallel Conason's interests in exposing manipulation of facts in politics.

Michael Tomasky writes about American politics and democracy with attention to progressive perspectives and institutional analysis. His work at Democracy Journal and The Daily Beast reflects similar themes about political accountability and power.

Sidney Blumenthal focuses on American political history and presidential politics through investigative reporting. His books and journalism examine political movements and power structures with comparable depth to Conason's approach.

Eric Alterman analyzes media coverage of politics and examines conservative influence in American politics. His work for The Nation and books about political media share Conason's interest in how information shapes political discourse.