Yes We (Still) Can by Dan Pfeiffer Summary

Yes We (Still) Can combines memoir and political analysis to explore Barack Obama’s presidency, the rise of social media’s influence on politics, and strategies for Democrats to counter Republican tactics in the Trump era. Pfeiffer, Obama’s former communications director, shares insider anecdotes about navigating Fox News, Twitter trolls, and GOP obstructionism while advocating for progressive resilience.

This book is ideal for politically engaged readers, Obama admirers, and those interested in digital media’s role in modern politics. It appeals to Democrats seeking actionable insights for combating Republican narratives and activists motivated by Pfeiffer’s optimistic call to action.

Yes. Critics praise its blend of humor, nostalgia, and practical advice, with Esquire calling it a “hopeful must-read” and Kirkus highlighting its forward-looking optimism. Pfeiffer’s firsthand accounts of Obama’s leadership and candid take on Trump-era challenges make it compelling for political enthusiasts.

Key themes include adapting political messaging for the digital age, combating disinformation, and maintaining hope amid partisan polarization. Pfeiffer emphasizes Obama’s belief that progress requires persistent effort, epitomized by the rephrased MLK quote: “The arc of the universe bends toward justice, but it doesn’t bend on its own.”

Pfeiffer critiques Trump’s divisive tactics but rejects fatalism, arguing Democrats can reclaim power by learning from Obama’s playbook: leveraging grassroots organizing, mastering digital outreach, and framing policies around shared values rather than partisan fights.

The book examines how platforms like Twitter transformed politics during Obama’s tenure, enabling direct voter engagement but also amplifying misinformation. Pfeiffer details strategies to counter right-wing media ecosystems, including partnerships with digital outlets like Vox and BuzzFeed.

Yes. He reflects on Obama’s successes (Affordable Care Act, climate diplomacy) and challenges (Republican obstructionism), framing his presidency as a model for principled leadership. Pfeiffer also defends Obama’s pragmatic idealism against progressive critiques.

Some reviewers note Pfeiffer’s partisan lens and limited scrutiny of Obama’s failures, such as deportation policies. However, his candidness about internal White House debates and Trump’s norm-breaking tactics adds credibility to his analysis.

Yes We (Still) Can expands on themes from the podcast, including grassroots activism’s power and the dangers of political complacency. Pfeiffer’s co-hosts praise the book for offering deeper insights into Obama-era strategies.

Notable lines include Obama’s reimagined MLK quote and Pfeiffer’s advice: “Hope is not a strategy—it’s a discipline.” These underscore the book’s thesis that progress demands relentless effort, not passive optimism.

With ongoing debates about democracy, misinformation, and GOP tactics, Pfeiffer’s analysis remains timely. The book’s lessons on digital campaigning and resilient messaging offer a blueprint for current Democratic strategies.

Fans of Shattered (Allen/Parnes) or A Promised Land (Obama) will appreciate Pfeiffer’s blend of memoir and strategy. However, its focus on post-Obama politics and tactical optimism sets it apart.