THE FIX
By Barbara McQuade
Publisher: Seven Stories
The former U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan describes what she considers threats to American democracy and national security.
Review by By The Books Reviewer
Barbara McQuade's "The Fix: Saving America from the Corruption of a Mob-Style Government" is a scathing indictment of the Trump administration, likening its operations to those of organized crime syndicates. Drawing from her extensive experience as a federal prosecutor, McQuade meticulously dissects the administration's alleged abuses of power, presenting a narrative that is both compelling and deeply troubling.
McQuade's central thesis is that the Trump administration operated with blatant disregard for law, custom, and democratic principles, employing corruption, cruelty, and chaos as tools of control. She argues that this modus operandi mirrors that of mob bosses, where loyalty is demanded, dissent is punished, and personal enrichment is prioritized over public service. The comparison is not merely rhetorical; McQuade provides concrete examples, such as the commutation of former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick's sentence—a case she personally prosecuted—which she interprets as a transactional favor rather than an act of justice. ([kirkusreviews.com](https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/barbara-mcquade/the-fix-2/?utm_source=openai))
The book is structured to first expose the alleged corrupt practices of the administration, followed by a call to action for citizens to reclaim democratic norms. McQuade suggests strategies ranging from organizing protests to running for local office, emphasizing the power of collective action. While these recommendations are laudable, they may come across as overly optimistic given the entrenched nature of the issues discussed.
Critics have praised McQuade's incisive analysis. Kirkus Reviews describes the book as "a smart assessment of a presidency marked... by blatant disregard for law, custom, and democracy." ([kirkusreviews.com](https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/barbara-mcquade/the-fix-2/?utm_source=openai)) However, some readers might find the relentless focus on the administration's faults to be overwhelming, potentially alienating those seeking a more balanced perspective.
In conclusion, "The Fix" is a meticulously researched and passionately argued work that sheds light on the perceived corruption within the Trump administration. While its unyielding critique may not appeal to all readers, it serves as a crucial document for those concerned about the state of American democracy. Given its depth and urgency, this book is highly recommended for readers seeking an unflinching examination of recent political history.
Recommendation: Highly recommended!
written on: 6/11/2026