"In the aftermath of an historic pandemic that laid bare the role of government in caring for its citizens, Feeling their Pain is a crucial ingredient in explaining the relationship between the government and the governed. With meticulous analysis of quantitative and qualitative data, McDonald explains how candidates appeal to citizens' broad desire for empathetic leaders, and how those citizens respond to empathetic appeals. Providing deep insights into the roots and remedies of partisan polarization, this book is essential for anyone interested in the psychology of modern American politics." -- Lilliana Mason , SNF Agora Institute Associate Professor of Political Science Johns Hopkins University"Why do presidential candidates who "feel your pain," tout "compassionate conservatism," or decry "American carnage" win over more-experienced and seemingly better-qualified opponents? In this masterful book, Jared McDonald tells us why by highlighting the profound electoral importance of compassion. Marshaling a treasure trove of evidence, McDonald contributes tremendously to our understanding of American elections as he demonstrates that empathy, or "caring about people like me," is an invaluable candidate trait." -- Geoffrey C. Layman, Professor and Chair of the Department of Political Science University of Notre Dame"Feeling Their Pain is a timely book on a topic I think will experience a rebirth in interest given the state of vitriol in contemporary American politics and the growing candidate strategy of being "compassionate." McDonald goes beyond "whether or not" compassion matters to examine why it matters, who it works for, and what this means for American politics.

Academics and practitioners alike will surely have it on their bookshelves!" -- Frank Gonzalez , Assistant Professor of Government and Public Policy University of Arizona"This short volume examines the role of compassion and empathy in selecting candidates for public office.McDonald argues that effectively using empathy and compassion in politics might be one way to dull the sharp edge of party polarization. Students of American campaigns and elections and campaign consultants will find this book a useful addition to their libraries." -- Choice.