By NATALIE SACKET
Feature Editor
The big screen or the oval office? Yet again, the presidential race has turned into more of a competition of entertainment rather than a debate on important issues.
This fact becomes more and more evident with every Cruz/Trump Twitter squabble and each meme that is made of Bernie Sanders. What was the most memorable moment of the Sept. 16 Republican debate? Discussions of foreign policy or the fact that Jeb Bush announced he once smoked marijuana 40 years ago?
Perhaps it has become increasingly more evident that entertainment dominates politics with the rise of Donald Trump’s campaign. America is tuned in, not to hear what great ideas he has in store for America, but what offensive mess he’ll get himself into next. There’s an extreme intrigue in that political train-wreck, allowing him to defy all rules of public relations and public perception.
But entertainment has been a prominent aspect of politics long before the reign of Trump. Ronald Reagan’s former career as an actor not only aided in his ability to deliver a stellar speech, but also his ability to captivate and win the trust of the public.
Over 157 years ago in Ottawa, Ill., the debate between Stephen A. Douglas and Abraham Lincoln drew thousands of spectators. Parades surrounded the debate; bands made noisy appearances. It appears as though entertainment is not a new immersion into the realm of politics; it has always played its part.
In 1960, when approximately 90 percent of Americans owned a television set, it was becoming clear that the candidates’ road to presidency would be more thoroughly broadcast, which served some well and harmed others. In the debate between John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon, it is rumored that Kennedy may have faired much better because of his handsome, poised appearance on television sets across the country. Nixon was in contrast, with his five-o’clock shadow and coarser appearance.
Psychologically, it makes sense, particularly with the role of media. News outlets desire viewers, and they understand that conflict draws in audiences. Because of this, squabbles are promoted by moderators of debates, and petty Twitter fights between candidates dominate the news stories.
Drawing in viewers is essential, however, regardless of the manner in which it is done. If Americans are interested and entertained by the political realm, it creates a further involvement and education of the public. However, it is essential that we learn to look past the petty squabbles, the incessant Twitter bickering, the outrageous behaviors of candidates and focus instead on the important issues at hand. Watch “Celebrity Apprentice” if you want to be entertained by Trump; focus on the candidates’ stances on issues if you want to be informed.