The political thriller series Designated Survivor, created by David Guggenheim, captivated audiences with its suspenseful plot and compelling performances. The show, which premiered in 2016 and ran for three seasons, follows the story of Tom Kirkman, portrayed by Kiefer Sutherland, a low-level cabinet member suddenly thrust into the presidency after a catastrophic attack on the Capitol during the State of the Union. While the series is engaging and entertaining, it raises questions about its accuracy in portraying the political and procedural aspects of the U.S. government.
The Role of the Designated Survivor
What is a Designated Survivor?
A designated survivor is an individual in the presidential line of succession, chosen to remain at a secure and undisclosed location when the President and other high-ranking officials are gathered at a single location, such as during the State of the Union. This protocol ensures continuity of government in the event of a catastrophic attack or disaster.
The Real-Life Selection Process
In the series, Tom Kirkman, the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, is chosen as the designated survivor. In reality, the selection of the designated survivor is a meticulous process. The individual chosen is typically a cabinet member, often someone who has a low public profile to minimize risk. This role is taken seriously, with the designated survivor required to stay at a secure location and remain in constant communication with national security officials.
Accuracy in the Show’s Portrayal
While Designated Survivor effectively illustrates the concept of a designated survivor, some dramatic liberties are taken. The show’s depiction of the selection process and the level of preparedness might be simplified or dramatized for narrative purposes. In reality, the designated survivor is briefed extensively on their potential duties and may even be accompanied by a military aide to ensure they are prepared to assume the presidency if necessary.
Presidential Succession and Authority
Line of Succession
The United States presidential line of succession is well-defined, with the Vice President first in line, followed by the Speaker of the House, the President pro tempore of the Senate, and then the eligible heads of federal executive departments. This line is intended to provide a clear path of leadership in the event that the President and other top officials are unable to serve.
Kirkman’s Ascension to Presidency
In the series, Kirkman is sworn in as President immediately after the attack. This quick transition is dramatized for the show, but it accurately reflects the urgency and protocol required in such a scenario. The actual process would involve a series of legal and procedural steps to ensure a smooth transition of power, including the swearing-in of the designated survivor by a federal judge or another authorized official.
Challenges of a Sudden Presidency
Kirkman’s character faces numerous challenges as he adjusts to his sudden role as President, from dealing with national security threats to navigating complex political landscapes. This aspect of the show is portrayed with a degree of realism, highlighting the immense pressure and responsibility that come with the presidency, especially under such extraordinary circumstances.
See also: Which Is the Best Season of Designated Survivor?
Political and Procedural Realism
Cabinet Dynamics
The show delves into the dynamics within the presidential cabinet, depicting both cooperation and conflict among its members. While Designated Survivor captures the essence of cabinet interactions, some scenarios are exaggerated for dramatic effect. In real life, cabinet meetings are generally more procedural, focusing on policy discussions and decision-making rather than personal conflicts.
National Security and Intelligence
The series features numerous plotlines involving national security, intelligence operations, and counterterrorism efforts. While these elements are based on real-world practices, the show’s portrayal often simplifies or dramatizes complex procedures. Intelligence gathering, for instance, is a nuanced and intricate process that involves multiple agencies and extensive analysis.
Legislative Process
Designated Survivor occasionally addresses the legislative process, including the passage of bills and the workings of Congress. While the show attempts to illustrate these processes, it often streamlines or dramatizes them for narrative purposes. In reality, the legislative process is lengthy and involves multiple stages, including committee reviews, debates, and amendments.
Public Perception and Media Portrayal
Media Scrutiny
The series portrays the media as a powerful force in shaping public perception of the presidency and the government’s actions. This aspect of the show is grounded in reality, as the media plays a significant role in informing the public and holding government officials accountable. However, the show’s depiction of media interactions can be dramatized, with heightened tensions and conflicts.
Public Opinion and Approval Ratings
Kirkman’s character grapples with fluctuating approval ratings and public opinion throughout the series. This element of the show reflects the challenges real-world presidents face in maintaining public support, especially during crises. The portrayal of public opinion is reasonably accurate, although the speed and intensity of shifts in approval ratings might be exaggerated for dramatic effect.
Plotlines and Fictionalization
Conspiracy Theories and Threats
A significant portion of Designated Survivor revolves around conspiracy theories and threats to national security. While these plotlines add suspense and intrigue to the show, they are often fictionalized and exaggerated. Real-world threats are typically more complex and multifaceted, involving various actors and motivations.
Personal and Family Life of the President
The series also explores the personal and family life of President Kirkman, including his relationships with his wife and children. While this adds depth to the character, it is essential to note that the personal lives of presidents are often kept private and are not as publicly scrutinized as depicted in the show.
Conclusion
Designated Survivor is a gripping political thriller that offers viewers a glimpse into the world of presidential succession and the challenges of sudden leadership. While the show is based on real concepts and practices, it takes creative liberties to enhance the narrative and maintain viewer interest. As with many political dramas, the show’s primary goal is entertainment, and its portrayal of political and procedural elements should be viewed with an understanding of the dramatic license taken. Nonetheless, Designated Survivor provides an engaging exploration of the complexities and responsibilities of the presidency, even if it is not entirely accurate in its depiction.
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