Can Mr. Smith Get to Washington Anymore (NR)

synopsis

Jeff Smith is 29 years old. He's short, scrappy and lisps when he speaks. He has no money, no previous political experience and no support from his family. But Jeff believes in the political process. He believes in the power of ideas to bring people together, and he believes in himself. A white, former African-American studies major, he is a man of surprising contrasts. He gathers a group of young, equally inexperienced idealists, and runs for Congress. Working in a cramped, un-airconditioned office with few resources beyond sheer will and the support of his staff, Smith propels himself into the political arena, attacking voter complacency head on. His innocent exuberance combined with a keen mind and command of policy and statistics overcome his "not ready for primetime" persona. Smith's win would be the triumph of content over form. A modern-day David and Goliath story, his rise from unknown to contender is a testament to the power of one man to make a difference.