Designated Survivor, a riveting political drama, captivated audiences with its unique premise: what happens when an unassuming government official suddenly ascends to the presidency of the United States? The show, which aired on ABC before moving to Netflix, centers on Tom Kirkman, portrayed by Kiefer Sutherland, who becomes the president after a catastrophic attack during the State of the Union address. This article delves into why Kirkman was chosen as the designated survivor, the role’s significance, and its implications within the series’ context.
Understanding the Concept of a Designated Survivor
What Is a Designated Survivor?
The concept of a designated survivor is a real-life protocol within the U.S. government designed to maintain continuity of governance in the event of a catastrophic incident. During significant government events, one cabinet member is chosen to stay at a secure, undisclosed location, ensuring that someone can assume the presidency if all others in the line of succession are incapacitated.
Historical Context: The protocol was formalized during the Cold War, a period marked by the fear of nuclear attacks, which necessitated robust contingency plans.
Line of Succession: The designated survivor is typically low in the presidential line of succession, which includes the Vice President, Speaker of the House, and others, ensuring continuity even under extreme circumstances.
Selection Criteria: The selected individual is often a lower-profile cabinet member, avoiding prominent figures who would be attending the event.
Legal Basis and Preparations
The legal basis for a designated survivor comes from the Presidential Succession Act. Preparations involve:
Security Measures: The designated survivor is taken to a secure location, accompanied by necessary aides and security personnel, with constant communication links to the outside world.
Readiness: The individual must be briefed on critical national security matters and be prepared to assume the presidency immediately.
Tom Kirkman’s Journey to the Presidency
Who Is Tom Kirkman?
Tom Kirkman is introduced as the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, a role typically considered peripheral in the context of presidential succession. His character’s journey is marked by his integrity, academic background, and commitment to public service.
Background: Kirkman is depicted as an academic-turned-politician, who entered politics to make a difference in people’s lives.
Persona: He is characterized by his honesty, empathy, and ability to remain calm under pressure—qualities that later become essential in his unexpected presidency.
Circumstances of His Selection
Kirkman’s selection as the designated survivor is rooted in the show’s fictional narrative, though it aligns with the actual criteria used by the U.S. government.
Low-Risk Choice: As the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, Kirkman is seen as a low-risk choice, unlikely to be targeted by political adversaries.
Political Dynamics: His strained relationship with the then-president and internal political struggles positioned him as an outsider within the administration, further justifying his selection.
Coincidence or Fate?: The show plays with the idea that Kirkman’s selection, while seemingly coincidental, is a twist of fate that thrusts him into the highest office.
See also: When Was The Designated Survivor Filmed?
The Aftermath: Challenges and Adaptations
Initial Reactions and Challenges
The transition from a cabinet member to the President of the United States is tumultuous for Kirkman, marked by skepticism, political maneuvering, and national crises.
Skepticism: Initially, Kirkman faces skepticism from other government officials, the media, and the public regarding his capability to lead the country.
Political Maneuvering: As an outsider, he navigates the complex web of political intrigue, dealing with power struggles within his administration.
National Crises: From terrorism to economic issues, Kirkman confronts a range of challenges, testing his leadership skills and moral compass.
Adaptation and Leadership
As the series progresses, Kirkman evolves into a formidable leader, earning the respect of his peers and the nation.
Leadership Style: Kirkman’s leadership is marked by his transparency, inclusivity, and focus on problem-solving, contrasting with typical political practices.
Public Perception: His genuine concern for the nation’s welfare and effective crisis management gradually win over public opinion.
Personal Growth: The presidency shapes Kirkman, highlighting his resilience and capacity to adapt to unforeseen circumstances.
The Role of the Designated Survivor in Popular Culture
Impact on Television and Storytelling
The show Designated Survivor brought the obscure concept into mainstream consciousness, influencing television narratives and public perception.
Unique Premise: The show’s unique premise and unexpected plot twists captured viewers’ imaginations, setting it apart from typical political dramas.
Character Development: It delves deep into character development, portraying Kirkman’s growth and the complexities of political life.
Reflection of Real-world Issues: The show addresses real-world issues such as terrorism, domestic policy, and international relations, making it relevant and thought-provoking.
Influence on Public Perception
The portrayal of Kirkman’s rise to the presidency highlighted the importance of preparedness and the potential of ordinary individuals to assume extraordinary responsibilities.
Awareness: The show raised public awareness about the continuity of government and emergency protocols, previously known only to those familiar with political processes.
Inspiration: Kirkman’s character inspires a sense of resilience and hope, demonstrating that even in the face of immense challenges, capable leadership can prevail.
Critical Discussion: It sparked discussions about leadership qualities, the nature of political power, and the unpredictability of life.
Conclusion
Tom Kirkman’s journey from a designated survivor to the President of the United States is a testament to the resilience of democratic institutions and the unpredictability of political life. His character embodies the potential for growth and the ability to rise to the occasion, regardless of one’s background or circumstances.
Designated Survivor not only entertained viewers but also provided a platform to explore significant political and social themes. Through Kirkman’s story, the series underscored the importance of integrity, empathy, and adaptability in leadership, leaving a lasting impact on its audience and the landscape of political dramas.
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