The world of American politics is filled with political narcissists who believe their own hype. But what happens when a political narcissist takes his/her ego to the extreme? Let’s take a deep dive into what makes a political narcissist and why they are running rampant in today’s politics. This year’s review of the political narcissist of the year will have you questioning how far these tendencies go.
What’s A Political Narcissist?
It really is uncanny how the characteristics of the “Political Narcissist” mirrors the clinical symptoms of the personality disorder. As discussed in Schnooks, Crooks, Liars & Scoundrels, one becomes a political “Narcissist” when s/he starts to “believe their own hype.” A “Narcissist” emerges when maintaining one’s personal narrative becomes more important than fulfilling the responsibilities of their given political position.
Narcissistic behavior ran rampant in politics this year, as frequently occurs in an election year. From delusional self-importance to an inability to handle criticism, these buffoons often believe that the world revolves around them.
Thus, a Political Narcissist reveals him/herself through manifesting behavior motivated primarily by being in and/or remaining in political power.
(EDITOR’S NOTE: If you want more political buffoonery, check out our review of the “Agenda Gymnast” of the Year!)
Kevin McCarthy: The Self-Entitled Speaker
Hosts Gene Berardelli and Ross Galloway called out Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy for believing that he was destined for leadership in 2025. McCarthy’s narcissistic refusal to step aside for a leader who truly represented the party’s base earned his place on this list.
Fani Willis: A Prosecutor Too Full of Herself
Next, the boys scrutinized Fani Willis, the prosecutor formerly leading the investigation into Donald Trump. Her narcissistic behavior included her affair with Nathan Wade, the disgraced special prosecutor she appointed, and her own arrogance exposed during legal proceedings. Ultimately, the Court in Georgia held her malfeasance merited expulsion from the case she brought against President Trump. From making spectacles in courtrooms, to defending questionable decisions, Willis’s behavior is a prime example of political narcissism run amok.
Leticia James: The Ego-Driven Attorney General
Third, Gene and Ross nominated Tish James, New York’s Attorney General, for her personal narcissism and her performance in office. From aggressive TV appearances, to her continuous pursuit of legal action against Donald Trump, Harris was a prime example of political narcissism. Throughout the year, James presented herself as morally superior, fueling her narcissistic image.
Nikki Haley: The Political Narcissist Who Stayed Too Long
Nikki Haley’s campaign for president is a textbook example of political narcissism. Haley remained in the primary longer than expected, even after it became clear that her chances were slim. Haley was so narcissistic, that she even once asserted that a woman would be president—either her or Kamala Harris—further emphasizing her ego-driven ambitions. Look where it got her!
Allan Lichtman: The Pollster Who Can’t Admit He Was Wrong
Of all the narcissists discussed, the odds-on favorite to be the “Narcissist” has to be political scientist Allan Lichtman. Lichtman’s self-image is deeply connected to his “keys” to predicting the outcome of presidential elections at a highly accurate rate. Lichtman’s keys failed him in 2024. While everyone is entitled to be inaccurate periodically, Lichtman’s ego could not take the hit. He doubled-down on his hubris by failing to admit that his “keys” were laughably off the mark. Instead of swallowing his pride, Lichtman obsessed over defending his “keys to the presidency” theory. That only resulted in further damage to his reputation and magnifying his narcissistic belief that he’s above reproach. Lichtman even reached cringe-worthy heights on Piers Morgan’s Uncensored , blaming the public for his own errors – even calling criticism of his work as blasphemy!
A Call for Change: Breaking Free from Political Narcissism
Narcissism is a dangerous and pervasive force in politics. For the political landscape to change, voters need to recognize the signs of narcissism and demand better leadership. It’s time for politicians to focus less on their egos and more on the issues that truly matter.Narcissism in politics doesn’t just harm the individual—it can have serious consequences for the democratic process. When politicians are more focused on their self-image and power than on serving the public, it creates a disconnect between the leaders and the people they’re supposed to represent.
As we approach a new political era in 2025, we here at Buffoon of the Week! challenge you to think critically about the leaders we elect. The narcissism of figures like Allan Lichtman, Fani Willis, and others demonstrates just how deep-rooted the problem is. If these leaders can’t check their egos, can they really be trusted to lead?
