Governor Tom Kean: From the New Jersey Statehouse to the 911 Commission

Governor Tom Kean served as New Jersey's chief executive from 1982 to 1990, leading reforms in education, environment, and economic development. This political biography traces his path from state assemblyman to governor and his later role as chairman of the 9/11 Commission. The book examines Kean's governance style and policy achievements during his tenure in New Jersey politics. Through interviews and archival research, author Alvin S. Felzenberg reconstructs key moments in Kean's career and the political landscape of late 20th century New Jersey. Following his governorship, Kean took on national prominence as head of the 9/11 Commission, tasked with investigating the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. The narrative follows this transition from state to national leadership, documenting his approach to this critical assignment. The biography presents a model of bipartisan leadership and coalition-building in American politics, offering insights into effective governance during polarized times. Felzenberg's account raises questions about the role of state executives in shaping national policy and discourse.

Readers consider this biography informative but note it leans toward celebrating Kean rather than providing deep critical analysis. Liked: - Details of Kean's leadership during the 9/11 Commission - Coverage of New Jersey state politics in the 1980s - Personal anecdotes about Kean's interactions with presidents and politicians Disliked: - Overly favorable portrayal that minimizes criticism of Kean - Limited exploration of controversies during his governorship - Some sections read like campaign materials rather than analysis Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (13 ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (9 reviews) Notable review quote from Amazon: "Good historical account but reads more like an extended resume than a critical biography" - R. Thompson The book received limited reviews overall, with most coming from New Jersey political followers and academic libraries.

The Final Report by Philip Zelikow and The 9/11 Commission The official account of the September 11th attacks provides insight into the investigation process and findings that Kean oversaw as Commission chairman.

Christie: The Inside Story of a Governor's Rise and Fall by Bob Ingle and Michael Symons This political biography chronicles another New Jersey governor's path through state politics and national prominence.

The Power Broker: Robert Moses and the Fall of New York by Robert Caro This examination of power, governance, and public service in New York parallels Kean's impact on New Jersey state politics.

My Life by Christine Todd Whitman The memoir of New Jersey's first female governor details the state's political landscape that Kean helped shape.

Against the Odds: How America's Century-Old Quest for Clean Air May Spur a New Era of Global Environmental Innovation by Thomas H. Kean Kean's own book on environmental policy provides additional perspective on his governing philosophy and policy priorities.

🔹 Tom Kean served as New Jersey's 48th governor (1982-1990) and was one of the most popular governors in the state's history, winning re-election in 1985 with the largest margin in state history. 🔹 Author Alvin S. Felzenberg served in several positions in Kean's administration and later worked as the principal spokesman for the 9/11 Commission when Kean served as its chairman. 🔹 Despite being a Republican, Kean appointed more women and minorities to his cabinet and judiciary than any previous New Jersey governor, earning him widespread bipartisan support. 🔹 As chairman of the 9/11 Commission, Kean helped produce the bestselling "9/11 Commission Report," which was nominated for the National Book Award in 2004. 🔹 Before entering politics, Kean was a teacher and later became president of Drew University (1990-2005), transforming it from a regional institution into a nationally recognized university.