“To anyone who has the good fortune to pick up and read Judd Swift’s excellent memoir, you will be richly rewarded. Judd’s fast paced and well written account of his time in government alongside Presidents Reagan and George H.W. Bush makes for fascinating reading. Judd gives you an insider’s view of life in the fast track. His description of his experiences in organizing campaigns and trips for our past presidents offers an insider insight into how things really happen. I speak with knowledge, having worked with Judd during President Bush’s visit to Egypt. I found the memoir spellbinding and trust you will as well.”
Frank G Wisner Former US Ambassador
“In ‘My Presidential Life,’ Judd Swift provides a captivating glimpse into the delicate world of diplomacy and the challenges faced by those on the front lines of international relations. His encounters with world leaders, including the dramatic showdown at Putin’s Dacha, make for behind the scenes reading. Swift’s book is a terrific read for anyone interested in politics, diplomacy, and global affairs.”
Sig Rogich Former Assistant to President George H. W. Bush and Former Director of President Reagan’s Tuesday’s Team
“No one knows the behind the scenes stories like Judd Swift. Truthfully, what Presidents and senior White Officials came to realize was if Judd Swift was there, some kind of amazing magic was going to happen.”
Craig L. Fuller Former Assistant to President Reagan and Chief of Staff to Vice President George H. W. Bush
“Judd Swift’s ‘My Presidential Life,’ is the ultimate peek behind the proverbial curtain: What happens behind the scenes before and during a presidential trip? You are about to find out in stunning detail as Judd shares all his adventures – and sometimes misadventures – on his life as a presidential advance man, taking the reader on a roller coaster ride of emotions.”
Jean Becker Chief of Staff to George H.W. Bush, 1994-2018
“Judd Swift could advance an astronaut to the moon. But wait. Hasn’t he done that already? Not yet. But if there is anyone who could, it would be Judd Swift. The Lead Advance coordinates the work of a variety of White House officials and government agencies in implementing a trip for the president. This work requires good judgement, detailed planning and long hours. Judd Swift is well known for all of these.
The chapters in this book detail the many adventures that Judd has experienced, and it captures the importance of the position of a Lead Advance person. There have also been lighter moments along the way and Judd recounts many of those as well. Judd is a legend and everyone will enjoy reading this book whether they are in insider or just someone who wants to learn the nuts and bolts of good behind the scenes advance work for a President of the United States.”
Bob Goodwin Former United States Ambassador
“These are the stories that will shock and amaze you. Yet Presidents know these are the people who will drag you to safety in strange hotels and foreign countries, protect your secrets, and make the trains run on time. And Judd Swift did it all. From the streets of Moscow to the sands of the middle east, Judd Swift has guided America’s political leaders through physical obstacles and intellectual challenges. He did indeed lead a presidential life.”
Marlin Fitzwater Press Secretary to Presidents Reagan and Bush 41
“An insiders view from the penultimate advance man for Presidents Reagan and the two Bushes. Swift describes in lively detail how to set the stage and drive positive media coverage at events, both home and abroad, enabling our Presidents to shine. An enlightening and fun read. If you enjoy politics and love being backstage with all the actors, then this is the book for you.”
John Fox Sullivan Former Publisher at Large-Atlantic Media
“I was honored to travel across the country and abroad with Judd Swift, doing our best to represent President George H.W. Bush and our great country. Judd is a legendary advance man who consistently delivered excellence. His book gives the reader a rare behind the scenes account of the complex work that makes a presidential trip successful.”
Thomas J. Collamore Former Deputy Chief of Staff President George HW Bush Senior Advisor, George and Barbara Bush Foundation