Meaning: This quote by journalist Hugh Sidey highlights the media's focus on the dramatic and sensational aspects of politics, such as electoral battles, at the expense of in-depth analysis of policy issues like the federal budget. Sidey suggests that the relentless coverage of presidential campaigns has led to a perpetual state of campaigning, overshadowing the more substantive work of governance and policy-making.

The first part of the quote emphasizes the preference of political reporters for the excitement and drama of electoral combat over the less sensational task of analyzing the federal budget. This reflects the media's tendency to prioritize news stories that are dramatic and attention-grabbing, as they are more likely to capture and retain audience interest. This bias towards conflict and spectacle can result in a disproportionate emphasis on the horse race aspect of politics, with a focus on polls, scandals, and political maneuvers, rather than on substantive policy issues.

The second part of the quote highlights the consequence of this media focus: the perpetuation of the presidential campaign. Sidey suggests that the media's relentless coverage of electioneering has created a continuous cycle of campaigning, where the next election cycle begins almost as soon as the previous one ends. This perpetual campaign mode can detract from the ability of elected officials to govern effectively, as they are constantly under pressure to engage in campaigning and fundraising activities rather than focusing on the responsibilities of their office.

The quote raises important questions about the role of the media in shaping political discourse and public understanding of governance. By prioritizing the sensational and dramatic aspects of politics, the media can contribute to a shallow understanding of complex policy issues. This can have significant implications for the functioning of democratic systems, as an informed and engaged citizenry is essential for effective governance.

Furthermore, the perpetual campaign mode described by Sidey can exacerbate partisan polarization and gridlock, as politicians are incentivized to cater to their electoral base and engage in divisive rhetoric rather than seeking common ground and governing in the public interest. This can hinder the ability of elected officials to address pressing national challenges and can erode public trust in the political process.

In response to Sidey's critique, some media observers argue that the focus on the horse race aspect of politics is driven by audience demand. They contend that the public is more interested in the drama and spectacle of elections than in the intricacies of budget analysis or policy details. As a result, media organizations prioritize coverage that attracts the most viewers or readers, often at the expense of in-depth policy reporting.

However, others argue that the media has a responsibility to provide comprehensive and substantive coverage of political issues, even if they are not as immediately attention-grabbing as electoral battles. They assert that journalists and news organizations should strive to educate the public about the complexities of governance and policy, fostering a more informed and engaged citizenry.

In conclusion, Hugh Sidey's quote sheds light on the media's tendency to prioritize the drama and excitement of electoral politics over the substantive analysis of policy issues. This can have profound implications for the functioning of democratic systems, as it can contribute to a shallow understanding of governance and perpetuate a cycle of perpetual campaigning. It raises important questions about the responsibility of the media to provide comprehensive and substantive political coverage, and the impact of media priorities on public discourse and governance.