Straight talk

Ed Schultz, a self-described liberal from the American heartland, is best known as the host of the syndicated radio program The Ed Schultz Show. In this book he takes aim at the political right, arguing that a free press is the only safeguard against tyranny. He accuses conservative commentators such as Rush Limbaugh and Sean Hannity of stifling public debate at a time when it matters most. Schultz writes in a blunt, combative voice, but he also speaks with evident concern for ordinary, hard-working Americans whom he believes are being squeezed by a government that serves the wealthy.

He covers a wide range of issues, including America's standing abroad, national security at home, the growing federal deficit, and the struggles of rural families trying to get by. Schultz mixes patriotism, anger, humor, and optimism as he appeals to honesty and liberty, and he presents his arguments as a direct, unvarnished appeal to the public.

The book is organized around four central concerns. The first is the nation's defense, where he faults the invasion of Iraq for weakening American credibility after a case built on weapons that were never found. The second is the economy, where he claims that modest tax cuts hide heavier costs. The third is agriculture, where he argues that farm policy and trade agreements are driving family farmers off their land and harming small towns. The fourth is education, where he says the No Child Left Behind Act imposes costs on state and local governments that will eat into any tax relief.