Strategies such as this allow the people to see a politician from a different angle than they normally would be exposed to. This side seems to be a more human, relatable side of the politician. According to Kolbert, “the most devastating joke is circulated not by an irreverent observer or a sly opponent but by the target himself” Parodies might be self-exposed, or credit given to an outside source, usually a late-night talk show. While a politician may easily lose control of what the media says about him or her, resulting in unfavorable shadows of themselves, self-induced parody is the opposite. Taking the initiative of restoring one’s personal, human image allows the ability to laugh off any downfalls. Relenting and taking control in moderation, opens the door for the politician to regain their public …show more content…
Politically smart people watch shows attuned to a higher understanding of politics and the involved players. The average person does not watch shows such as “Meet the Press” or “Face the Nation”. A higher percentage are instead undereducated, unsure or lacking in opinion when it comes to submitting their vote. As such, programs starring Jimmy Fallon, Seth Meyers and Stephen Colbert are making up the difference in supplying current political information (Kolbert, 71). Political comedy programs discuss current events, encouraging politicians to make appearances to discuss their recent decisions, actions or mistakes. Commonly, politicians appear during campaigns, following events effecting their reputation, or to affect their reputations. Jon Macks, a previous writer for Jay Leno, once said that “there’s a lot of people that watch the ‘Tonight Show,’ or any of the shows like it, who are going to see someone and they are going to connect” (Kolbert, 72). Utilizing these publicized moments is a chance to form connections with the people, showing themselves in a different light. Proving politicians are people, able to relate to the problems people are going through in their daily lives. All people can embarrass themselves. Each can utter a wrong word, offend the wrong person. The only difference being politicians have theirs directly affecting their occupations.