People talk about electoral politics in terms of parasociality, but I wonder if that framing makes it seem like a new thing when it's much older. Like, up until pretty recently a huge chunk of political messaging was built around the question "which of these two men would I prefer as a drinking buddy" ?
That's definitely true, and it may go all the way back to FDR using the radio to speak directly to the electorate. We began to feel like we had a friend in government.
But I do think now is different than before. People didn't end relationships because they said George W Bush seems like an idiot or Al Gore seems like a robot.
You nailed why I so uncomfortable with what is going on now. Movie stars are texting me madly. I feel ashamed that anyone could think this would influence a person who is thoughtful.
Really excellent piece, Ed. We have to keep reminding ourselves that politicians work for us. We are the boss, not their acolytes. It is very disappointing to me that Democrats are starting to fall into the bad habit of excusing all the failings of the Dear Leader and treating politicians like celebrities.
I have to say, I'm a bit relieved, only in that I made a personal pledge long ago never to vote for another candidate over the age of 65. This shakeup, whether it ends up being Harris or someone else, means at least I'll likely be able to cast a vote for the president again.
People talk about electoral politics in terms of parasociality, but I wonder if that framing makes it seem like a new thing when it's much older. Like, up until pretty recently a huge chunk of political messaging was built around the question "which of these two men would I prefer as a drinking buddy" ?
That's definitely true, and it may go all the way back to FDR using the radio to speak directly to the electorate. We began to feel like we had a friend in government.
But I do think now is different than before. People didn't end relationships because they said George W Bush seems like an idiot or Al Gore seems like a robot.
For sure it goes back to JFK, who people fawned over like he was a celebrity.
Ah, that's a good point!
You nailed why I so uncomfortable with what is going on now. Movie stars are texting me madly. I feel ashamed that anyone could think this would influence a person who is thoughtful.
Really excellent piece, Ed. We have to keep reminding ourselves that politicians work for us. We are the boss, not their acolytes. It is very disappointing to me that Democrats are starting to fall into the bad habit of excusing all the failings of the Dear Leader and treating politicians like celebrities.
I have to agree with much of what you said regarding the state of politics in the U S. It has become about Fandom and boy do we love that. Sad really
A sane and articulated piece on this whole circus? Excellent. As a Canadian I mostly watch from the sidelines but I really enjoyed this.
Also Xbox for life
Oh, if only one could be so lucky!
Also, Xbox is for dang SQUARES
Well said, Eddy.
I have to say, I'm a bit relieved, only in that I made a personal pledge long ago never to vote for another candidate over the age of 65. This shakeup, whether it ends up being Harris or someone else, means at least I'll likely be able to cast a vote for the president again.
I do think a lot of the immediate outpouring of support is really just a statement of relief that we have a candidate who isn't impossibly old!
But that is a very good commitment, I think!