Chapter 8

Summary

• The chapter is based in Hyde Park, New York on May 28, 1928, and focuses on the main character, Eleanor.
• Eleanor rushes into a family dinner at her mother-in-law’s home, Springwood, apologizing for being late due to her work on Governor Smith's presidential campaign.
• Eleanor brushes off the disappointment of her family members about her tardiness. She also ignores her mother-in-law's disapproval at her casual attire.
• Despite the long hours and the commute between her work at Governor Smith’s campaign headquarters and home, Eleanor is thrilled to be a part of a significant historical moment - the first presidential election where women voters will play a essential role.
• In the family dinner discussion, Eleanor and family members discuss their summer plans and their sons’ behavior and academic performances.
• Eleanor and her friend Nan, who is also involved in the campaign, joke about having their children help with the campaign work, which is met by disapproval from Eleanor's mother-in-law, Sara.
• During dinner, they receive a phone call from Governor Smith who surprisingly requests to speak with Eleanor's husband, Franklin.
• It is revealed that because of his paralysis, Franklin had assumed he would not be able to be actively involved in the campaign.
• After the phone call, he reveals to the family that Governor Smith has asked him to give a speech nominating him for president at the Democratic National Convention. This news hints that he may be courted to replace Governor Smith if he wins the presidency.