Performance, Theatricality and the Us Presidency: The Currency of Distrust

This book explores the role of performance in US presidential politics, combining theoretical argument and original interviews with leaders in U.S. presidential speechwriting. It proposes a new perspective on the contemporary rise of mainstreamed populism by exploring features of populist-style politics through the lens of distrust. The erosion of trust in politicians and political institutions is a major challenge in early twenty-first-century democratic politics, and the book argues that the potential for political distrust must be understood as an essential feature of representative democracy because representation works through performance.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2023
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

In the realm of US presidential politics, the role of performance has emerged as a central and intriguing aspect. This book delves into the intricate interplay between performance and politics, combining theoretical arguments with original interviews with key figures in U.S. presidential speechwriting. Through a multidisciplinary lens that seamlessly integrates politics and theatre/performance perspectives, it offers a fresh perspective on the contemporary rise of mainstreamed populism.

Since the Watergate scandal, the erosion of trust in politicians and political institutions has posed a significant challenge in early twenty-first-century democratic politics, particularly in the United States. This book contends that rather than being a flaw or corruption, the potential for political distrust must be recognized as an essential feature of representative democracy. The book explores performance as a multifaceted phenomenon, encompassing scripts, embodiment, ideas of selfhood, and historical norms and ideals. It draws upon a wealth of scholarship in political representation, rhetoric, and populism, as well as theories of performativity, theatricality, and acting.

Through in-depth interviews with political speechwriters who have worked across presidential administrations and campaigns, from Ronald Reagan to Barack Obama, the book demonstrates both the inherent distrust in representative politics and how, in mainstreamed populism, distrust becomes a central focal point around which the theatre of politics revolves. The author argues that performance plays a crucial role in shaping public perceptions, influencing political outcomes, and shaping the very nature of political discourse.

This book offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics of performance and politics, shedding light on the ways in which politicians use performance to convey their messages, connect with voters, and navigate the treacherous terrain of contemporary politics. It is a must-read for scholars, students, and anyone interested in understanding the role of performance in shaping the political landscape of the United States and beyond.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399509985