Politics 2000

Now that Sen. Joe Biden is officially on the Democratic ticket, we can return to watching episodes of New York Goes to Hollywood, Tori and Dean: Home Sweet Hollywood, Sunset Tan and Pam: Girl on the Loose. I like reality shows–probably more than I should–but I usually prefer competition shows, like Survivor, the Amazing Race and Project Runway. Non-competition shows like that first group of programs I mentioned don’t typically hold my interest.

Politics works the same way. Without conflict, what is there? The best works of art have conflict. The finest films, the top plays, the favorite books, the timeless music, the classic television shows all have antagonists and protagonists battling for supremacy in one form or another. Politics draws the most interest when there are worthy adversaries. Most House of Representative seats have been gerrymandered to ensure one party or the other will win. Not very exciting.

Had Shakespeare not featured heart-wrenching tragedies–even within his comedic works–he would not remembered 500 years after his death. Romeo and Juliet just wouldn’t be the same if the title couple lived happily ever after. Nor would the 2000 election be recalled (either fondly or angrily) without the twists and turns that took place. No one talks much about the 1964, 1972 or 1984 presidential contests because they proved not to be contests on Election Day. Americans love rooting for one side, no matter what.

So take heart in the next 70 days and enjoy the inherent conflict. No matter the result, don’t allow yourself to become too happy or despondent. For like fans of Chelsea and Brazilian Olympic football, there’s always a next time. The 2010 mid-term elections start Nov. 5, 2008.

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