The Bentsen Blueprint

After decades in the Senate, Lloyd Bentsen takes on a new challenge: serving as Treasury Secretary under President Bill Clinton. In this episode, we explore Bentsen’s swift confirmation, his critical role in passing the 1993 Deficit Reduction Act, and how his leadership helped shape the longest peacetime economic expansion in U.S. history. From navigating the political landscape to championing trade policies that benefited Texas an...

It’s 1988. The Cold War is winding down, the U.S. economy is strong, but a growing national debt looms large. Senator Lloyd Bentsen is on the Democratic ticket as Michael Dukakis’ running mate, facing off against a familiar Texas name—George H.W. Bush.Though Bentsen loses the vice presidency, he remains a force in the Senate, playing a pivotal role in one of the most consequential political moments of the era: the 1990 Deficit Redu...

In 1982, Lloyd Bentsen wasn’t just fighting to keep his Senate seat—he was rewriting the rules of political campaigning. Facing a rising Republican tide, Bentsen and his team, including a rising strategist named Jack Martin, built the first-ever coordinated campaign in Texas. Drawing lessons from a failed presidential bid and the emerging science of voter targeting, they deployed innovative tactics that reshaped Texas politics. Thi...

Lloyd Bentsen’s journey from World War II hero to influential public servant was shaped by resilience, strategy, and a deep commitment to service. In this episode, Bentsen reflects on his military service, early days as a county judge, and the campaigns that defined his career. He shares insights into his relationships with key political figures and his philosophy on leadership. From tackling poverty to advocating for civil rights,...