Click to play videoPennsylvania: In the world of politics, humor is a rare gift. And Republican nominee in the US Presidential race John McCain proved it once again on popular US show The Daily Show.
Known for his good punch lines, some say his sense humour may be helping his campaign.
Here’s a sampler:
John Stewart (show host): You're watching the Democrats beat each other up all over the head. What are you?
John McCain: It's terrible. I hate to watch!
John Stewart: Oh it must be very difficult. You're getting what the hot rocks, the sauce…
John McCain: (big laughter) My heart goes out to them!
McCain’s sense of humour has a fan in the consultant for the Republicans Brian Kirwin.
“Comedy has been a pretty traditional way to reach out to voters that may not follow the traditional news media, and I think John McCain, if I had to put it, I'd give him an 8.5 so far,” Kirwin says.
He adds McCain has successfully ripped a page from the Ronald Reagan handbook.
Many would remember Reagan famous line: “I’m so desperate for attention I almost considered holding a news conference.”
Reagan was a master at using humour to deflect criticism. In a 1984 debate, Reagan turned Walter Mondale's concern about his age into a joke.
“I am not going to exploit for political purposes my opponent's youth and inexperience,” he had said.
Psychologists say those who use humour are considered intelligent, rebellious, risk-takers who are unafraid to push the boundaries of good taste.
“I think shopping in Baghdad. I had something nice. Yea it's a nice little IED to put on your desk,” McCain joked during The Daily Show.
Psychologists also say humour like McCain is risky. It can easily alienate some voters and provide fodder for detractors.
“Imagine a presidential candidate making a joke about IEDs when these kids are getting blown apart, it's outrageous!” Pennsylvania Democrat John Murtha fumes.
But McCain has his answer ready: “All I can say to Murtha and others is lighten up and get a life.”
But, while some strategists say McCain does cross the line, there is no doubt the ability to tell a good joke is a great skill to have.
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