Picture a lawyer-turned-storyteller whose political thrillers predicted real-world election scandals—meet David Pepper! A fifth-generation Cincinnatian, Pepper blends his Yale-educated legal mind and insider political experience as former Ohio Democratic Party chairman with a knack for crafting gripping novels. His work, lauded by the likes of Bill Clinton and The Wall Street Journal, dives into the murky waters of voter suppression and foreign meddling, all while keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
But Pepper’s not just a novelist. His advocacy for voting rights, featured in Stacey Abrams’ documentary 'All In,' and his nonfiction books like 'Laboratories of Autocracy' make him a unique voice in both fiction and democracy’s defense. Ready to explore the world of this multifaceted author?
The Making of David Pepper
Born on June 7, 1971, in Cincinnati, Ohio, David Pepper grew up as the son of former Procter & Gamble CEO John Pepper Jr. A fifth-generation Cincinnatian, he was steeped in the city’s civic spirit from a young age. After graduating from Cincinnati Country Day School, he earned a B.A. magna cum laude and a J.D. from Yale University, where he honed his sharp intellect. His early career in commercial litigation at Blank Rome and a stint in Russia with the Center for Strategic and International Studies sparked a fascination with power dynamics—a theme that would later define his writing.
Pepper’s political journey began in 2001 when he topped a field of 26 candidates to join Cincinnati City Council, later serving on the Hamilton County Board of Commissioners. As Ohio Democratic Party chairman from 2015 to 2021, he fought voter suppression head-on, laying the groundwork for his dual career as a novelist and democracy advocate.
David Pepper’s Unforgettable Stories
Pepper’s novels are political thrillers that feel ripped from tomorrow’s headlines. His debut, 'The People’s House' (2016), follows reporter Jack Sharpe uncovering a Russian plot to rig a U.S. election—a story so prescient it earned praise for 'predicting the Russia scandal.' The Wall Street Journal called it a 'sleeper candidate for political thriller of the year,' applauding Pepper’s insider knowledge of gerrymandering and D.C. intrigue.
Sequels like 'The Wingman' (2018) and 'The Voter File' (2020) continue Sharpe’s adventures, tackling cyber-sabotage and media manipulation. Bill Clinton praised 'The Voter File' for its 'clever tale' of democracy under siege. Pepper’s 2022 novel, 'A Simple Choice,' weaves #MeToo themes into a twisty narrative, showcasing his ability to blend social issues with suspense. His style is fast-paced, grounded in real-world politics, and laced with a Midwestern grit that reflects his Ohio roots.
Beyond fiction, Pepper’s nonfiction works, 'Laboratories of Autocracy' (2021) and 'Saving Democracy' (2023), expose state-level threats to democracy. Paul Rosenberg of Salon called 'Laboratories' 'arguably the most important' book on democratic erosion, cementing Pepper’s role as a thought leader.
Why David Pepper Matters
David Pepper’s impact lies in his ability to bridge fiction and reality. His thrillers don’t just entertain—they warn, shining a light on vulnerabilities in American democracy. As an advocate, his litigation against voter suppression and leadership in Ohio’s abortion rights referendum have left tangible marks. Teaching election law at the University of Cincinnati, he inspires the next generation to fight for fair elections.
Pepper’s Substack, 'Pepperspectives,' and appearances on platforms like Progress Texas keep his ideas accessible, urging everyday Americans to engage locally. In a polarized world, his blend of storytelling and activism offers a hopeful, actionable path forward.
- Born: June 7, 1971, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Key Works: 'The People’s House,' 'The Voter File,' 'Laboratories of Autocracy'
- Notable Praise: Named 'one of the best political-thriller writers' by The Wall Street Journal
Snag 'The People’s House' and dive into David Pepper’s thrilling world of politics and suspense!