What is the main message of Renegade?

The main message of Renegade is all about fighting for the future of democracy.

How long does it take to read Renegade?

The estimated reading time for Renegade varies depending on the reader, but you can read the Blinkist summary in just 15 minutes.

Is Renegade a good book? Is it worth reading?

Renegade is worth reading because it provides a unique insider's perspective on the fight for democratic values.

Who is the author of Renegade?

The authors of Renegade are Adam Kinzinger and Michael D'Antonio.

Society & Culture

Renegade Book Summary - Renegade Book explained in key points

Listen to the Intro

00:00

Renegade summary

Name: Renegade
Rating: 3 (10 reviews)
Author: Adam Kinzinger & Michael D'Antonio

Adam Kinzinger Michael D'Antonio

Defending Democracy and Liberty in Our Divided Country

3 (10 ratings)

18 mins

Brief summary

Renegade by Adam Kinzinger & Michael D'Antonio chronicles Kinzinger's journey from GOP loyalist to outspoken critic. It highlights his principled fight to uphold democratic values against rising extremism within American politics.

Topics

Social Philosophy US Presidents US Politics Democracy Biographies Political Figures

Table of Contents

Renegade
Summary of 5 key ideas

Audio & text in the Blinkist app

Key idea 1 of 5

What’s in it for me? Discover how standing up for democracy can triumph over partisan politics and personal ambition.

The American political landscape, particularly in recent years, has undergone significant upheavals, challenging the very fabric of democracy. At the heart of these changes lies the tumultuous presidency of Donald Trump and the growing rifts within the Republican Party. This era witnessed a struggle for the soul of American democracy, marked by a departure from traditional political norms and an alarming rise in partisan division. The events culminating in the January 6, 2021, assault on the US Capitol served as a glaring reminder of the fragility of democratic institutions and the perils of political extremism.

Amid this national crisis, individuals like Adam Kinzinger, a Republican Congressman, found themselves at a crossroads. Faced with the choice between party loyalty and the defense of democratic principles, Kinzinger chose the latter, standing out as a rare voice of dissent within his party. His decision to vote for the impeachment of Donald Trump was a bold declaration of his allegiance to the Constitution and the rule of law, setting him apart from many of his peers.

In this Blink, you’ll learn about the personal and political journey of Adam Kinzinger, from his roots in a small Illinois town to his role in the national political arena. You’ll delve into the complexities of his political awakening during the rise of the Moral Majority, his experiences navigating the rifts within the Republican Party, and his stance during the Trump era.

Prepare to dive into Kinzinger’s life and beliefs to get a critical perspective on the challenges and responsibilities inherent in safeguarding democracy.

The struggle for integrity in a fractured political landscape

In the wake of a deeply divided nation, the January 6, 2021, assault on the US Capitol starkly exposed the vulnerability of American democracy. This assault wasn’t merely a violent outbreak but the culmination of a deceptive campaign led by then-president Donald Trump, who relentlessly propagated baseless claims of election fraud. This event, emblematic of Trumpism, threatened the core values of democratic governance and the nation’s constitutional foundation.

Amid this crisis, figures like Republican Congressman Adam Kinzinger emerged as defenders of democratic principles, prioritizing the nation’s constitutional integrity over party loyalty. Kinzinger, acutely aware of the dangers posed to the Constitution, courageously voted for Trump’s impeachment, marking him as a principled outlier within his party. His stand was a testament to his commitment to democracy, justice, and the rule of law.

This commitment was reflected not just in the halls of Congress but also on the frontlines, where the Capitol Police officers faced the brunt of the chaos. Their harrowing accounts of defending the Capitol against a mob fueled by disinformation and conspiracy theories highlighted their unwavering dedication. Just as Kinzinger stood up for constitutional values, these officers, vastly outnumbered and facing violent aggression, embodied the physical defense of those very principles.

Kinzinger’s roots in a small Illinois town profoundly influenced his political stance. His upbringing, steeped in the values of community, integrity, and a moral compass shaped by his family and the teachings of the Independent Fundamental Baptist church, provided a foundation for his future political decisions. This background, balancing faith with a broad worldview, was pivotal in shaping his approach to public service.

Kinzinger’s political awakening coincided with the rise of the Moral Majority and the Christian Coalition, which marked a significant shift in conservative Christian politics during the 1980s and 1990s. These movements transitioned from a policy of isolation to proactive engagement in secular politics, intertwining political conservatism with religious zeal. This evolution contributed to a more confrontational political atmosphere, setting the stage for the events of January 6.

The repercussions of the Capitol siege highlighted the fragility of democracy and the imperative of steadfast adherence to personal convictions, even against daunting odds. Kinzinger’s story is more than a narrative of political strife; it represents an ongoing struggle for the soul of a nation. His journey reminds us of the constant challenge to balance individual beliefs with the broader responsibilities of a democratic society, urging us to reflect on the true meaning of democracy and our roles in upholding it.

From local roots to national realities

Imagine a 20-year-old Kinzinger stepping into the political arena in 1998, not into a battlefield of hostility but into a debate marked by an almost forgotten cordiality. In a small Midwestern town, local politics still thrived on community values and mutual respect – a stark contrast to the divisive national political scene of today.

In this gentler era of politics, Kinzinger, then a college student, challenged an incumbent for a county board seat. The debate’s neighborly tone mirrored the community’s commitment to decency and cooperation. Kinzinger’s youthful audacity paid off; he won the election, not just marking a personal triumph but also reflecting the supportive nature of his community. The Pantagraph, the local newspaper, played a crucial role in nurturing this spirit, regularly featuring local events and milestones, thereby maintaining a strong community connection.

Balancing ambition and ideals

In 2009, Kinzinger embarked on a political journey that exemplified the intricate dance of personal ambition, party dynamics, and public sentiment in the realm of American politics. Announcing his run for Congress in Ottawa, Illinois, Kinzinger’s campaign wasn’t just about serving the public or patriotism; it was also an acknowledgment of the significant role ego plays in the decision to enter the political arena.

Kinzinger’s candidacy came about during a transformative period for the Republican Party. The political landscape of his district had shifted, partly influenced by Barack Obama’s presidential win. Kinzinger, with a background marked by his faith, military service, and local political experience, positioned himself as a new kind of Republican candidate. His moderate conservatism aimed to resonate across a diverse swing district. But he later realized the limitations of this approach as the GOP increasingly embraced identity politics.

The shifting sands of Republican politics

In the changing dynamics of American politics, the waning influence of the Tea Party around 2014 signified a return to moderation within the Republican Party. This period, marked by the successes of figures like David Jolly and Dan Newhouse – who represented a more moderate Republican viewpoint – indicated a shift toward a more centrist stance. Yet, the political landscape remained fluid, constantly reshaped by diverse viewpoints and the evolving nature of the times.

During this era, the Republican Party underwent a significant transformation from the collegial and bipartisan ethos once embodied by Ronald Reagan. The party increasingly embraced a combative, power-centric approach, a departure from its traditional values. This change was further accentuated by the growing fusion of right-wing religious zeal with political ideologies, a stark contrast to the previously apolitical nature of conservative Christianity.

Unveiling the truth

In the wake of the January 6 Capitol insurrection, a significant undertaking began to uncover the truths of this dark day in American history. The select committee, including Kinzinger, faced the immense task of delving into the depths of this national crisis. It grappled with a colossal volume of evidence, examining over a million documents and conducting thousands of interviews, requiring a team of over 120 professionals, including lawyers, investigators, and support staff.

Central to its investigative process was Denver Riggleman, a data management expert and former congressman, whose role was instrumental in analyzing vast amounts of phone and text records. These records, crucial in piecing together the events of the day, weren’t direct transcripts but logs of calls and messages, key to understanding the intricate web of interactions.

Want to see all full key ideas from Renegade?

Key ideas in Renegade

More knowledge in less time

Read or listen

Get the key ideas from nonfiction bestsellers in minutes, not hours.

Find your next read

Get book lists curated by experts and personalized recommendations.

Shortcasts ^New

We’ve teamed up with podcast creators to bring you key insights from podcasts.

What is Renegade about?

Renegade (2023) offers an insider’s perspective on the turbulent political landscape in the United States. Focusing on the challenges and divisions within the Republican Party, it delves into the personal and political consequences of standing against party norms during a time of heightened partisanship, showcasing the complexities of democracy and liberty in a divided country.

Renegade Review

Renegade (2021) is an intriguing exploration of political divisions and the fight to reclaim the soul of America. Here's why this book deserves a spot on your reading list:

It offers a behind-the-scenes look at the inner workings of politics and the struggles faced by those fighting against partisan division.
With first-hand accounts from author Adam Kinzinger, the book provides a unique perspective on the challenges of navigating the current political landscape.
The book's exploration of courage and integrity in the face of adversity makes it a thought-provoking and important read for anyone interested in the future of American democracy.

Who should read Renegade?

Political science students and researchers
Members of the Republican Party seeking introspection
American history and contemporary politics enthusiasts

About the Author

Adam Kinzinger is a former US representative and vocal opponent of the prevailing trends within the Republican Party, particularly during the Trump administration. Known for his principled stances and his role in the impeachment of Donald Trump, Kinzinger has been a key figure in contemporary American politics.

Michael D’Antonio is a Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist known for his in-depth and critically acclaimed biographies, including Never Enough.

Categories with Renegade

Society & Culture Biography & Memoir Politics

Book summaries like Renegade

Democracy Awakening

Heather Cox Richardson

Notes on the State of America

A Groundbreaking Exploration of Love, Gender, and Family

18 min

When the Clock Broke

John Ganz

Con Men, Conspiracists, and How America Cracked Up in the Early 1990s

23 min

Areopagitica

John Milton

A Crusade for Freedom of Speech

5 min

4.3

The Algebra of Wealth

Scott Galloway

A Simple Formula for Financial Security

17 min

3.9

The Singularity Is Nearer

Ray Kurzweil

When We Merge with AI

A Dystopian Novel on the Perils of State Control & New Technology

Self-Healing with the Transformative Power of Energy Psychology

19 min

3.7

Discipline Is Destiny

Ryan Holiday

The Power of Self-Control

18 min

4.7

It’s OK to Be Angry About Capitalism

Bernie Sanders

What it Would Take to Change the Status Quo That Enriches Billionaires and Holds the Working Class Down

12 min

3.9

Doubt: A History

Jennifer Michael Hecht

The Great Doubters and Their Legacy of Innovation from Socrates and Jesus to Thomas Jefferson and Emily Dickinson

20 min

3.5

The Last of the Mohicans

James Fenimore Cooper

Struggle, Love, and Adventure Unfold

On the Origin of Time

Thomas Hertog

Stephen Hawking's Final Theory

17 min

4.6

Workstyle

Lizzie Penny and Alex Hirst

A revolution for wellbeing, productivity and society

21 min

3.8

Single, Dating, Engaged, Married

Ben Stuart

Navigating Life and Love in the Modern Age

The Lost Art of Accomplishment Without Burnout

20 min

4.1

The Capitalist Manifesto

Johan Norberg

Why the Global Free Market Will Save the World

19 min

3.6

101 Essays That Will Change The Way You Think

Brianna Wiest

Philosophical Meditations That Will Change Your Life

An American Fight Against Fascism

How to Soothe Your Body and Mind in Minutes

Financial Evolution at the Speed of Thought

20 min

4.1

The Everyday Hero Manifesto

Robin Sharma

Activate Your Positivity, Maximize Your Productivity, Serve The World

How Stories, Stats, and Studies Exploit Our Biases

11 min

4.0

The 12 Traits of the Greats

Dave Martin

Mastering The Qualities Of Uncommon Achievers

17 min

4.3

Making Sense of Chaos

J Doyne Farmer

A Better Economics for a Better World

18 min

Superintelligence

Nick Bostrom

Paths, Dangers, Strategies

A Brief History of Humankind

The Mind Management Program for Confidence, Success and Happiness

Kevin and Melissa Fredericks

12 Conversations to Keep You Laughing, Loving, and Learning with Your Partner

How the Republican Party Became Donald Trump

21 min

4.0

Tess of the D'Urbervilles

Thomas Hardy

Innocence Lost, Strength Found

15 min

Raising Mentally Strong Kids

Amen MD Daniel G. & Charles Fay

How to Combine the Power of Neuroscience with Love and Logic to Grow Confident, Kind, Responsible, and Resilient Children and Young Adults

Amazon's Ruthless Quest to Own the World and Remake Corporate Power

20 min

13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do

Amy Morin

Take Back Your Power, Embrace Change, Face Your Fears and Train Your Brain for Happiness and Success

40 min

4.6

The Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory

Tim Alberta

American Evangelicals in an Age of Extremism

A Plan to Make America a Democracy Again

The Inside Story of How Social Media Rewired Our Minds and Our World

17 min

4.1

The Wages of Destruction

Adam Tooze

The Making and Breaking of the Nazi Economy

20 min

4.1

DIRTY LAUNDRY

Richard Pink & Roxanne Emery

Why adults with ADHD are so ashamed and what we can do to help

How I Survived, Had Fun, and Made a Fortune Doing Business My Way

30 min

4.4

The CBT Workbook for Mental Health

Simón Rego & Sarah Fader

Evidence-Based Exercises to Transform Negative Thoughts and Manage Your Well-Being

Explore the Evolution of Inequality and a Path to a Better Future

Sacred Sex for the Twenty-First Century

The Four Types of Human Behavior and How to Effectively Communicate with Each in Business (and in Life)

23 min

4.3

The Coddling of the American Mind

Greg Lukianoff and Jonathan Haidt

How Good Intentions and Bad Ideas Are Setting Up a Generation for Failure

People ❤️ Blinkist

Sven O.

It's highly addictive to get core insights on personally relevant topics without repetition or triviality. Added to that the apps ability to suggest kindred interests opens up a foundation of knowledge.

Thi Viet Quynh N.

Great app. Good selection of book summaries you can read or listen to while commuting. Instead of scrolling through your social media news feed, this is a much better way to spend your spare time in my opinion.

Jonathan A.

Life changing. The concept of being able to grasp a book's main point in such a short time truly opens multiple opportunities to grow every area of your life at a faster rate.

Renee D.

Great app. Addicting. Perfect for wait times, morning coffee, evening before bed. Extremely well written, thorough, easy to use.