PrintJanuary 23, 2010
A Seinfeld perspective on Massachusetts
In a post on November 19 entitled Another Failed Presidency, I stated:
At this point they [politicians] are trying to decide what is least dangerous for their individual careers. For the Republicans that probably means pouring gasoline on ship Obama. For the Democrats, it is a more difficult problem. Ultimately, I believe they will abandon the rotting ship. Politicians of both parties are like rats; they are survivors. All politicians will take that course which they believe gives them the best chance for individual survival. Loyalty be damned.
The Massachusetts' election was the bell for the rats to abandon ship.
Massachusetts and its aftermath might have been the worst political nightmare for Larry David and other writers of the Seinfeld show. It was probably unimaginable, yet they managed to write what might be a near- perfect allegory for the event. It involved George Costanza at a children's birthday party.
The key scenes, which can be viewed here, provide a humorous parallel to Democrat reactions to Massachusetts. The preliminary conversation between Costanza (Democrats) and the Clown (Republicans) is indicative of the lack of communication and cooperation between the two parties. When smoke is discovered, George bolts for the exit, knocking down children, mothers and the elderly as he tries to save himself. The allegory only becomes richer when Costanza lies and rationalizes his behavior to the police, a process that Democrats now face when explaining their change of course.
The ultimate irony is that few associated with the Seinfeld show would appreciate the humor. Yet, once again, the show forces us to recognize our own foibles through its absurd scenes and characters. To me, it is the perfect microcosm for what our political class (or lack of class) has devolved into.
It is now apparent that this President has failed, superbly and unequivocally. Even Democrat epigones know it. Before the evacuation of Obama's ship is complete, it is likely that we will see Democrat behavior that makes George Costanza appear heroic.
The only happy Democrat today is Jimmy Carter. He probably senses the chance to pass his heavy mantle of "worst President in my lifetime" on to "The One."
Monty Pelerin www.economicnoise.com
