SCANDAL and the Election

For those of you SCANDAL or politics fans out there, let's discuss all the ways the two are virtually the same this season. I would hate to say that SCANDAL is ripping off the election, but it certainly seems that way. The show is still one of my favorites and I think the parallels do help the show's audience to better understand modern politics. However, some of the similarities are just plain uncanny.

The show has found itself far enough along to warrant electing a new president. Yes, Fitz's term is almost up! That means that the show is quite literally running parallel with our current politics. Right now, candidates are running in primary elections, both IRL and on the show. There are two candidates in both scenarios that seem all but the same exact person.

The EX-First Lady: SCANDAL the television show has decided that Mellie Grant will run for President, just as Hillary Clinton is running for President of our United States. The similarities don't stop there though; both of their husbands have been accused of cheating WHILE IN the White House. Show creator, Shonda Rimes, may not have known that she's ever have Millie actually run for President, like Clinton has in the past and is currently doing. So this may have started as a commentary on the politics of the Presidency, while drawing on inspiration from Bill Clinton's presidency. It's certainly clever to parallel the two because it draws in audiences, it's relatable. And even though we see Fitz as somewhat of a scumbag, we still like him, he's a likable character. As such, people still liked Bill and now the audience can sympathize with Bill a bit more.

The Billionaire Tycoon: If you haven't yet realized that Donald Trump is running for President, you are likely living under a rock. SCANDAL has its own Billionaire Tycoon who is also running for president. Both of them are disliked, yet somehow they both seem to keep winning and gaining momentum. Trump won Indiana yesterday, almost insuring the Republican nomination. Meanwhile, in last Thursday's episode of SCANDAL, Hollis Doyle wins a primary, even after the governor's endorsement was given to another Republican candidate!

It's without a doubt smart of the show's producers to create these parallels between real life and the show. It makes things more relatable for the audience. The only downside it would seem is that at times it feels like the show is copying real life. But then you think of all the ways the show has embellished or created subplots that are completely separate from what is happening in current politics. I truly think this is a great show and has the potential for to continue its momentum.

#Scandal