The Future of the US Presidential Election: A Fight Between Mad as Hell and the Classic Bully
" "As the 2024 US Presidential Election heats up, the landscape has been compared to the iconic scene from the movie Network, where Howard Beale, the mad as hell network news anchor, runs against Biff Tannen, the classic bully. Interestingly, when it comes to the current frontrunners Donald Trump and Bernie Sanders, many pundits and voters believe that Donald Trump would likely emerge victorious. The reasons for this are manifold, reflecting the ongoing political and social dynamics within the United States, particularly the stance of the Democratic party and the characteristics of the two main candidates.
" "Current Predictions and Voter Trends
" "Currently, the prevailing sentiment suggests that Donald Trump would win the election. This is partially due to the perception within the Democratic party that Bernie Sanders represents an 'extreme' view, which many incumbents and long-time politicians find unappealing. As a result, there is a strong likelihood that Bernie Sanders' supporters might not turn out on election day. Moreover, the base of Donald Trump's supporters appears to be exceptionally loyal and steadfast in their support.
" "The intensity and fervor displayed by Trump’s supporters, similar to Biff Tannen's bully characteristics, cannot be understated. His long-standing presence in politics and his ability to mobilize supporters through vocal and often controversial rhetoric have long made him a formidable opponent. Unlike Biff, however, Trump is seen as a power broker, a bodyguard who protects the interests of his followers from perceived threats.
" "The Bullies and Liberators in Politics
" "The description of Donald Trump as a 'liberator' versus Daniel Day-Lewis' portrayal of Biff Tannen as a bully is not without merit, especially when one looks at the policy positions and rhetoric of both candidates. Trump often presents himself as a savior for those who feel disenfranchised or ignored by the existing political establishment. On the other hand, Bernie Sanders, despite being a charismatic and fierce advocate for his causes, is often seen as compromising in the face of opposition. This is evident from his embrace of certain policies that might align with a more moderate position.
" "The analysis of Bernie Sanders' past support for Fidel Castro, as mentioned in the original text, illustrates how his perceived association with left-wing ideologies could paint him as a potential 'bully' to some voters and commentators. Sanders, who suffers from health issues stemming from a recent heart attack, is often portrayed as frail and lacking the combative and energetic demeanor that some voters prefer in a leader. In contrast, Trump's physical and mental resilience, and the way he projects strength and decisiveness, are seen as more palatable.
" "Moreover, the changing attitudes towards left-wing politics in the past decade, as evidenced by the revelations about Castro's regime, have shifted the narrative from a nationalistic and protective stance to a more conservative and critical one. This shift is crucial in understanding why certain segments of the population might be more inclined to support Donald Trump over Bernie Sanders.
" "Conclusion: Howard Beale's Rhetoric and Its Impact
" "In the end, the sentiment expressed in the scene from Network where Howard Beale declares, 'We’re mad as hell and we’re not gonna take Biff’s shit anymore, ' captures the spirit of many Bernie Sanders supporters. However, the reality of the 2024 election suggests that Trump's bullyscape rhetoric and his ability to inspire loyalty and action among his followers might tip the scales in his favor.
" "The discourse around the election is complex and multifaceted, reflecting the deep divisions within the American political landscape. As the campaign progresses, it will be crucial to observe how voter behavior, policy positions, and political dynamics evolve, ultimately shaping the outcome of the presidential race.