So today's edition of GPB's "Political Rewind" was dominated by a discussion with Chris Whipple, author of "The Gatekeepers," a look at 19 chiefs of staff under eight U.S. presidents.

The overt Republican among us stopped nodding his head in agreement when Whipple, while noting that Jimmy Carter and Donald Trump share a slight something in terms of White House disorganization, also theorized a vast difference:

Carter was probably the most intelligent president to inhabit the White House in the 20th century, he said, while Trump was something less.

Much discussion followed, including the observation that intelligence and management skills do not always walk hand in hand. If you missed the live version, listen to it here now:

Today’s panelists: Host Bill Nigut; yours truly; Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson; and Republican consultant Brian Robinson.

About the Author

Featured

Fans celebrate in the stands after Cape Verde defeated Eswatini in a World Cup qualifying soccer match at Estádio Nacional in Praia, Cape Verde, Monday, Oct. 13, 2025, to clinch their qualification for the 2026 World Cup. (Cristiano Barbosa/AP)

Credit: AP