This past year yielded many passionate politicians. But now, election season is over and award season is upon us. The academy is celebrated its favorite films, directors and actors last night. However, amidst the country’s political conflict, ORANGE is here to also award the most deserving politicians.
Story by Carrissa Davis
Having The Most Fun
The Nominees: Barack Obama, Donald Trump, Hillary Clinton
And The Winner Is… Barack Obama
Although he campaigned hard, Donald seems to be having less fun with the responsibilities of the highest government office. While we assume Hilary is having a refreshing retreat in the forests of upstate New York, she may still be in mourning. But, if Obama’s Instagram is an influencing factor, our former president is having a great time on his Caribbean vacation. After eight years of running the show, this guy deserves a break, and we’re happy to see him kicking back and riding the waves.
Best Saturday Night Live Parody
The Nominees: Alec Baldwin, Kellyanne Conway, Steve Bannon
And The Winner Is… Kate McKinnon
The portrayal of Bannon is a skull mask and cloak are spookily accurate, and Alec Baldwin can make his face do things you didn’t know faces could do, but Kate McKinnon stole the spotlight for political parodies. She dazzled us as Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Angela Merkel, Hillary Clinton, and of course, Kellyanne. With a grocery-shopping montage and a full-on musical number, McKinnon charmed America in 30 Rockefeller this year.
Most Creative Use of Social Media
The Nominees: Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, Donald Trump
And The Winner Is… Donald Trump
Although America loved Obama’s grace and charm and Hillary’s attempt to reach the youth online, no one has differed from the norm quite like Trump. His now-famous Twitter rants read more like tabloid headlines than presidential addresses, and he tackles a wide range of topics, from political opponents to Tony-winning musicals.
Least Likely to Stop—Ever
The Nominees: Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Elizabeth Warren, Hillary Clinton
And The Winner Is… Elizabeth Warren
Ruth Bader Ginsburg is still kicking at 83 years old, and although she talked about retirement, the results of the election encouraged her to stick around for another four years. Meanwhile, Hillary hasn’t taken a break since graduating from law school, as we heard many times during her campaign. However, Elizabeth Warren has become a feminist icon over the years, and is given this award for opposing alt-right Attorney General, Jeff Sessions, in a Senate meeting. The criticism she received from Majority Leader Mitch McConnell inspired a trending Twitter hashtag and the commemoration of feminist leaders throughout history called, #ShePersisted.
Best in Texas
The Nominees: Ted Cruz, Wendy Davis, Sally Hernandez
And The Winner Is… Sally Hernandez
Ted Cruz made an inspiring career change from alleged Zodiac Killer to politician, and Wendy Davis made big strides on reproductive health in Texas. But, Sally Hernandez has really shown her stars and stripes in the aftermath of the 2016 election. She is standing up for immigrant rights in Austin, in the face of vehement opposition from the conservatives at the Texas Capitol.