The Reality Behind House of Cards: A Comparison with Washington Politics

The depiction of Washington politics in the popular Netflix series House of Cards has raised questions about the accuracy of its portrayal. While it is not a totally accurate representation, a decent number of its more outlandish moments are based on real events.

Overview of House of Cards

House of Cards is an American political thriller streaming television series created by Beau Willimon. It is based on the 1989 novel of the same name by Michael Dobbs and an adaptation of the 1990 BBC series of the same name also from the novel. The series follows Underwood's rise to power in the political arena, making it a fascinating yet controversial exploration of power in the United States.

How Accurate is the Depiction of Washington Politics?

There are varying opinions on the accuracy of House of Cards' portrayal of Washington politics. Some argue that while the series exaggerates certain aspects, a significant part of what happens in the show has actually occurred in real life. However, others suggest that the show takes liberties for dramatic effect and entertainment value.

Staff Size and Process in Congress

One aspect that stands out is the role of Congressional Legislative Assistants and Administrative Assistants. According to a Hill old timer, these staff members play a much larger role in the process than any TV show or movie indicates. Moreover, the staff size is larger than what is shown on the screen, and things take much longer to happen in real life. This is a stark contrast to the fast-paced, high-stakes scenario presented in House of Cards.

The Reality of Political Ambition

While the ambition depicted in House of Cards is often portrayed as ruthless and cynical, real-life politicians are typically more ruthless and cynical than characters like Frank Underwood. However, they shy away from the graphic violence and murder shown in the series. Instead, their primary goal is to enrich themselves and gain power, often at the expense of their duties and the public good.

Real-life Political Leaders and Their Ambitions

Donald Trump, for example, has been criticized for his leadership style and political ambitions. He views himself as a leader in the image of Adolf Hitler, Vladimir Putin, and Viktor Mihály Orbán. These leaders are known for their authoritarian rule and human rights abuses. Trump's rhetoric and actions have often been compared to these dictators, highlighting the murky and often dangerous realities of political power.

Is it Possible to be President?

Many argue that being President or even a powerful congressional figure is not as appealing as it might seem. The stress of the role and the constant scrutiny can be overwhelming. As a result, some politicians seek other, more lucrative, positions within Congress or upon leaving office. This is especially true for those who have built relationships with lobbyists and banking interests.

Conclusion

While House of Cards offers a dramatic and entertaining view of Washington politics, it is important to recognize that it is not entirely a realistic portrayal. Many elements of the show are based on real events, but they are often exaggerated for the sake of drama and suspense. Understanding the real-life intricacies and complexities of Washington politics can provide a more nuanced perspective on the series and the political landscape it portrays.