Independent Lens : Can Mr. Smith Get to Washington Anymore? (2007)
Directed by Frank Popper
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Synopsis by Matthew Tobey
Using an underdog congressional bid as a springboard, director Frank Popper explores the dangers of political dynasties in this documentary that aired as part of PBS's Independent Lens series. In 2004, 29-year-old political unknown Jeff Smith decided to make a run for an open congressional seat in Missouri, and soon found himself facing off against a political Goliath. With only a passionate grassroots group of volunteers behind him, Smith's candidacy serves as a true test of the efficacy of the little guy in modern American politics.
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dynasty, grassroots, newcomer, political-campaign, political-machine