After witnessing (and participating in) the reception Michelle Obama received on a Virginian university campus, I couldn’t help but reflect on how much the cult and popularity of the Obamas boosts their electoral chances. I also couldn’t help but contrast their standing with most British politicians.
The crowd clamours to wave goodbye to Michelle Obama.
Barack Obama can slow the jam the news to rapturous reception. George Osbourne’s public appearance at a Paralympics medal ceremony led to pantomime style booing.
Obama and Biden can nip down to a local burger joint and this happens. Ed Miliband looks awkward in Gregg’s.
So, does it matter that most British party leaders are not particularly cool? Does it disqualify them from high office?
I am going to argue against my gut reaction here; yes it does. Or it makes it harder for them to be successful, at least. Being blunt, you need to be charismatic if you’re going to be a representative of your country. Charisma (or ego) alone is a terrible ingredient in a politician, but when mixed with others (intelligence, determination and empathy to name but a few) it can be the secret ingredient that gives you the winning edge.
At a time when The Conservative Party suffered heavy losses across the country, Conservative Boris Johnson, by sheer force of personality, retained his place in London City Hall as mayor. Although polls now are showing some turn-around to put President Obama ahead overall, he raced a neck-and-neck against Gov. Romney for months as polls placed him behind on the economy but ahead on likability. For further evidence, you need look no further than this 24th August poll, indicative of many others.
So, maybe you don’t need to have a great singing voice, a loveable family, or be the sort of guy (or gal) I’m desperate to go and have a beer (or gin) with; but you need to be likeable enough to represent the country and for me to think that you can empathise with my concerns.
