From The Real-World Politics of ‘American Idol’:
Less than 1 percentage point — just 100,000 votes — determined which two contestants made it to the final of “American Idol,” and whether Katharine McPhee or Taylor Hicks finish on top next week won’t come down to mere talent, say some political analysts.
“I think ‘American Idol’ is very political,” said Jenny Backus, a Democratic strategist.
The other side of the political aisle agrees. “‘American Idol’ is democracy in progress,” said Republican pollster Kellyanne Conway.
——–Singers use a number of vote-lobbying techniques on the show — appealing to patriotism, appearing with politicians — even kissing babies.
The winner is definitely someone who is likeable and appealing to the general American public.
