In recent years it has become a part of the national campaign trail for presidential and vice-presidential candidates to appear on Saturday Night Live. Obama did it. John McCain did. Al Gore did it. It seems as if SNL is just another stop and I’m wondering if this is cheapening the political process. Is it turning politics into a joke? Or is the joke if you don’t appear you’ll be missing a great opportunity to reach your audience?
Saturday Night Live is one of the most popular programs on TV. It’s audience comprises a good cross-section of American society. While leaning mostly liberal, SNLs audience also consists of Republicans and conservatives who appreciate good humor. They’re also voters. But probably not all of them.
I still think that appearing on SNL is a somewhat cheap shot for a politician. Are they running for office or student class president? I don’t care if they have a sense of humor. They are not being asked to meet with foreign leaders to see who can tell the best jokes. They are being asked to handle some difficult decisions in a world that is growing more complex every day. Yes, having a sense of humor is welcome in any holder of public office, but I am concerned that the political process is mandating that an appearance on a satirical stage is a necessity for those running for office. Am I the only one?
