From a war hero, to a gay professional athlete, to a pizza boy, Washington politicians used various people as props in the 2014 State of the Union address.

Knowing that the cameras were rolling, and millions of viewers watching across the country, various politicians, from both political parties, invited special guests to sit by their side in hopes of making a statement to onlookers.

Washington elitists seem to think it is okay to use people who have gone through tough times or displayed bravery to make a political point, or advanced their own agenda. It’s sad.

I mentioned last night on twitter that watching the SOTU made me think of a country ran by kings and serfs. It was very imperialistic, and nothing more than showmanship.

I now understand why Thomas Jefferson, the author of the Declaration of Independence and third President, ended the tradition of the State of the Union address (no surprise, Woodrow Wilson brought it back). Jefferson opted to send a copy of his speech to Congress, which was later published for public record. Adamantly against imperialism, Jefferson refused to take part in anything that resembled such a thing…

After watching politicians use people as props, I think it’s time to put an end to the State of the Union address. Washington’s elitists should focus on compromise and actually getting things done at their day jobs, rather than putting on a show for the cameras.

Stay hungry,

Aaron

In case you missed it, and for some reason want to watch the State of the Union, here it is for your viewing pleasure. Spoiler alert: it’s a snoozer.