From the file. Written for the paper dated December 1999. Opened in the public stacks July 14, 2026.
As we approach the turn of the millennium, the political landscape in Washington is buzzing with the anticipation of the upcoming presidential election, a contest that seems to be more about entertainment than ideology.
"The fear of being perceived as boring is palpable." The American Intelligencer
Just last week, in a surprising display of charisma, Vice President Al Gore appeared on “The Late Show with David Letterman,” joking about his infamous “lockbox” mantra while also taking a jab at his likely opponent, Texas Governor George W. Bush. This event underscores a growing trend where both major parties appear to be learning to adapt their strategies to avoid the dreaded pitfall of boredom.
Entertainment Politics: The New Norm
Gone are the days when voters might tune in to a debate for the sheer substance of policy proposals. Today, a candidate's ability to engage and entertain might be just as crucial as their stance on issues like the economy, healthcare, or education. This shift is not merely an evolution; it is a revolution in how politics operates - one that both parties are starting to recognize and fear.
Take the recent Democratic National Committee meetings, where party leaders are actively discussing ways to appeal to younger voters who are increasingly disengaged from traditional politics. They're turning to the same tactics that have made television shows and pop culture icons successful - creating a public persona that resonates emotionally with the electorate. The fear of being perceived as boring is palpable, and for good reason: a lack of excitement can lead to a lack of turnout, which is the last thing either party wants as we head into a critical election year.
The Role of the Media
With the rise of cable news and the information superhighway, the media landscape has dramatically changed. The 24-hour news cycle demands that politicians remain in the public eye, not just through policy discussions but also through personality-driven narratives. A candidate like Bill Clinton, who famously played the saxophone on “The Tonight Show,” has set a precedent. His ability to connect with audiences through entertainment has left a lasting impact, and now both parties are scrambling to find their own "saxophone moment."
Voter Engagement: A Double-Edged Sword
While the desire to avoid boredom is understandable, this new focus on entertainment politics poses its own risks. For one, it can dilute the importance of substantive issues. When the focus shifts from a candidate's policies to their ability to make voters laugh or cry, crucial discussions about healthcare reforms or foreign policy may fall by the wayside. It is a delicate balance that both parties must navigate carefully.
Moreover, the constant need for engagement places immense pressure on candidates to stay relevant and interesting. This often leads to gimmicks that can backfire - remember when Senator John McCain attempted to poke fun at his own age during a campaign event? While it earned him some laughs, it also raised questions about whether he was taking the race seriously.
The Future of Political Campaigns
As we look ahead to the new millennium, it is clear that political campaigns will only continue to evolve in this direction. Expect to see more candidates embracing unconventional platforms to connect with voters, whether through viral videos on the early Internet or appearances on popular talk shows. The line between politics and entertainment is becoming increasingly blurred, and it will be fascinating to see how this trend shapes the future of American democracy.
With both parties now acutely aware of the power of boredom, the race is on to capture the hearts and minds of the electorate in ways that are both engaging and meaningful. Only time will tell how this battle for attention will unfold in the years to come.
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