With there having been some political talk here on the forum lately (ok, mostly just me and JD) I've been thinking about special interest groups and how they influence our governement.
So I thought of this idea but I'm curious if anyone knows if this would be LEGAL. I'm not sure if it would run into "equal-time" rules. I don't think that's an issue unless your a candidate for President, but I could be wrong.
What if one of the networks had a reality show called "The Candidate", that showed a person, perhaps even a true independant, on the campaign trail to become a senatar for one state.
Or, to make it interesting follow one each of a republican and a democrat.
Now on it's face, I know that sounds like more crappy TV.
BUT, the advantage would be we would get a little inside view at politics, and MOST important the candidates could agree to not accept ANY outside donations for their campaign.
They get ALL THAT TV exposure, and if they should manage to win they are in NO ONES pocket.
Might just work don't ya think?
Now, I realize that the nation would watch and only the state they're running in could vote, but it would still be exposure in their state that would go FAR above what they would ever get buying air-time for commercials.
I think every other state and canditate would call that unfair media exposure. I like the idea and would love to watch that, but I don't think the politicians would like it. And well, in this case, I think the politicians would win.
I am not sure about the legality, but I am thinking that would not be an issue. I would think if there was a law against it, if the sides agreed that would be irrelevant. It would make for boring tv only if they showed boring stuff. I think a producer could truly show how tiring it is to do it properly, what and who is involved and the toll it takes on all involved. A very novel idea for candidates who lack money, but not talent or support! I would think as long as it is a race with just two running it could be done! What else I would like would be a snapshot of what happens after they get into office- what they face and how many promises they make good on!