When a political figure takes a stumble, it becomes news. This may lead to questions about journalistic integrity or whether such news is in poor taste, but it is still considered noteworthy. In fact, everything captured on camera during a public appearance of someone in power is fair game for the media.
Political leaders put on carefully crafted appearances. They want to be seen walking confidently, climbing steps jauntily, and shaking hands with ease. They hope these images will convey a message to the public, but the media cannot simply overlook any unflattering photos. Whether a leader stumbles or misses a step, it is still considered news. Over the years, many such photos of wobbling leaders have made headlines.
It’s not uncommon for people to laugh at these photos, and comedians have made jokes about them. The opposition in a democracy may also try to capitalize on a leader’s stumble. However, neither of these reactions is a matter of poor taste. Rather, we are simply interested in seeing the powerful in situations that are more relatable. A leader stumbling can make them seem more like us, and provide us with a glimpse into the person beneath their carefully crafted persona. News isn’t just about what’s important, but also what is interesting.
The list of leaders who have been caught stumbling includes Joe Biden, Donald Trump, Hillary Clinton, Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, Margaret Thatcher, Boris Johnson and Robert Mugabe. India’s Shankar Dayal Sharma is also on the list.
If two men who have been unsteady on their feet in public battle it out in America’s next presidential elections, it will be news that’s interesting in all kinds of ways. Political figures remain in the public eye and everything they do is subject to scrutiny. Even if they take a misstep, it can make for fascinating news.
