The Ironists' Election: Nixon, Obama, and the Rhetoric of Realignment

• In Event: Applying Burkean Theory to our Political Past, Present, and Future

Abstract

In recent years, electoral realignment theory has garnered increased attention in the field of political science. This paper explores the rhetorical dimension of realignment efforts, suggesting that a realigning politician develops ironic appeals. Drawing from Burke, this analysis contends that Richard Nixon and Barack Obama alike develop ironist personas to mystify partisan divides. Distinguishing themselves from predecessors associated with self-certainty, each candidate stresses the virtues of reasonableness as a rhetorical trope.

Author

• Michael Steudeman, Northern Illinois University