As a dark horse candidate for the Republican presidential nomination, Matthews finds his views whitewashed, his ideals sacrificed, and his marriage severely compromised. Sound familiar? Although written in 1946, the play’s themes of ambition, moral character, political corruption, “dirty tricks,” and crises of conscience could have been lifted from a political blog written today.
State of the Union delivers a spellbinding look at back room politics. In this presidential year of brokered conventions and come-from-behind candidates, State of the Union is a timely reminder of what it takes to be president and what we expect from our leaders. The notion of an idealistic and honest “outsider” giving the corrupt “insiders” their comeuppance is a powerful theme in American politics. Add the journalist as power broker and you have a clear portrayal of the pitfalls of running for office.
