Conspiracy Theories and Amplified Animosity

On candidates applying for a job…

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George: Does she know her stuff? Does she have experience? Is she good at her job? Is she calm enough to handle pressure? Can she put her point across without going off-topic? Can she win a debate?

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Bill: Yes to all of the above.

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Amplified Animosity 

George: Then why is she so unpopular?

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Bill: There’s this avalanche of hate speech.

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George: That’s the marginalized groups.

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Bill: But don’t you think the media fed this conflagration? Just a bit?

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George: Aah. Yes. The press seeking sensational soundbites. Lacing their stories with juicy conspiracy theories. Highlighting outrageous suggestions. And then there’s social media feeding their participants the same messages they want to hear.

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Bill: Can America settle down and become a civilized society? Will we have war INSIDE America as well as the ones OUTSIDE?

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George: We’ll know after November 8, won’t we.

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Voice-over

Why do people hate a knowledgeable, hard-working leader who is good at her job? See Economist article here.

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Crosswords

Bill is busy on crosswords but Hillary wants him on other work.

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Hill: Did you see that photo Drudge got of me? I need a better public image.

Bill: I’m working on it. I’m sending this to the New York Times crossword editor.

Hill: I need some good photos, Bill.

Bill: We need words, too, Hill.

Hill: How can a crossword help?

Bill: I’m writing clues. First woman president in 7 letters. Mother of Chelsea in 7 letters. Husband of Bill in 7 letters.

Hill: All the words in the puzzle the same? I still think photos are more powerful than a subliminal approach.

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Voiceover

Politicking involves exposing yourself in public. But decently, with dignity and if possible, discreetly. The paparazzi are all too keen to catch uncomplimentary shots, which may be why JFK always hid himself when eating. Hillary has to monitor her expressions, and like anyone middle-aged, check for blemishes and manage harsh lighting. Bill, a man of words for policy or play, suggests a discreet tactic. Have any candidates used this one yet?

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