Chapter 16

Summary

• The chapter is set in Albany, New York, in 1932 and features Franklin Roosevelt and his wife Eleanor, as well as his adviser Louis Howe, discussing Franklin's potential presidential run.
• There is a description of Louis Howe's historic and personal relationship with the Roosevelt couple, emphasizing Louis's crucial support during Franklin's polio episode.
• They debate on Franklin's chances in each state, with a particular focus on Pennsylvania. They also discuss the possibility of procuring the "colored vote".
• Mr. Joseph Guffey, a businessman from Pennsylvania who’s been influential within the Democratic Party, has suggested Mr. Robert Vann, a well-known, colored attorney can be a potential ally.
• Howe explains that Vann is disillusioned with the Republican Party and is considering publicly endorsing the Democratic Party and Franklin Roosevelt, including through his widely-read Pittsburgh Courier, in exchange for colored units in the U.S. military and a position of some power for him.
• Considering the economic depression affecting the colored community adversely, they realize this is a strategic opportunity to appeal to the colored voters.
• Eleanor agrees with the idea but suggests that they could consider Mrs. Mary McLeod Bethune, a prominent and trusted figure in the colored community, instead of Vann.
• Surprised and impressed, Franklin and Louis are open to Eleanor's proposition, marking a significant point in their political strategy planning.