Buffoon of the Week Staff
As the year winds down, it’s time to recognize the most outrageous political figures of 2024. Let’s dive into the antics of those political figures who’ve made emotional chaos their trademark. This year’s nominees for the infamous “Hot Mess” category are individuals who, rather than offering rational discourse, rely on anger, emotional outbursts, and personal meltdowns to stir up drama.
Defining the “Hot Mess” Buffoon
Gene Berardelli defines the “Hot Mess”, or Buffoonicus incredulous, in his book Schnooks, Crooks, Liars & Scoundrels as those who Cloud political discourse through use of emotion over facts. These Buffoons often appeal to their base through emotional turmoil rather than offering reasoned arguments. They have a tendency to fall into fits of emotional distress during stressful moments. A prime example mentioned is New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker’s dramatic “I am Spartacus” moment during the Brett Kavanaugh hearings, where his emotional outbursts overshadowed rational debate and ultimately proved to be futile.
(EDITOR’S NOTE: Check out the “B.S. Buffoon” discussion here)
The DNC and Mallory McMorrow’s Memorable “Tongue Lashing”
The video begins by spotlighting the Democratic National Convention (DNC), specifically a moment that left viewers scratching their heads. Mallory McMorrow, a Michigan state senator, made headlines after she nervously stuck out her tongue frequently during a speech on Project 2025. While hosts Gene Berardelli and Ross Galloway chalked it up to a nervous tic, McMorrow’s lack of explanation led to widespread mockery, with the boys humorously questioning whether McMorrow had “forgotten to drink water.” Other moments that raised eyebrows at the DNC included Joe Biden’s “political wake”, Nancy Pelosi getting tissue paper stuck on her heel as she strode to the podium, and NY Governor Kathy Hochul calling Democratic designee Kamala Harris the “First President” of the United States. And that was just day 1!
AOC and Her Histrionics
New York Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) is another key figure in the “Hot Mess” conversation. The video highlights a speech during the DNC where AOC switches accents mid-sentence, likely to connect emotionally with her audience. The DNC, according to the hosts, relied heavily on emotional appeals throughout, culminating in a convention that felt more like an emotional spectacle than a rational political event.
MTG’s “Fake Eyelashes” Drama
Speaking of AOC, she played a clear role in Georgia Congresswoman Margorie Taylor Greene (MTG) entering the “Hot Mess” conversation. MTG’s infamous public feud with AOC and Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX), involving insults about, among other things, fake eyelashes. The exchange, labeled as a “spectacle” by hosts Gene Berardelli and Ross Galloway, showcased the emotional drama that often takes center stage in political discourse that overtakes policy-driven debate.
Chris Christie: The Villain Who Couldn’t Win
Chris Christie, former Governor of New Jersey, is another contender for the “Hot Mess” this year. Known for his emotional outbursts during the Republican presidential primaries, Christie was vocal in his criticism of both Donald Trump and Vivek Ramaswamy. The video reveals a particularly chilling moment where Christie openly wished for a “death match” between Trump and Ramaswamy. His ongoing emotional responses and inability to make a real impact in the race make him a strong nominee to be deemed the “Hot Mess.”
Sheila Jackson Lee: A Legacy Of Emotional Buffoonery
No “Hot Mess” discussion would be complete without mentioning the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX). The video highlights several moments that make her a fitting candidate, including her inability to properly wear eclipse glasses during a solar eclipse earlier this year. But, beyond the glasses, Jackson Lee’s dramatic outbursts with staffers, including calling one named Jerome a “fat ass” and “stupid idiot,” are cited as examples of her erratic behavior. The hosts describe her as “utterly unqualified” for her role in Congress, yet she was a constant source of “great content” for the show.
So… WHO YA GOT?
The “Hot Mess” of the Year nominees offer a compelling look at some of the political drama that unfolded throughout 2024. From emotional outbursts to chaotic confrontations, these figures have made their mark through sheer emotional spectacle rather than policy-driven discourse. Whether you agree with our picks or have your own nominee in mind, one thing is clear: 2024 has been a year full of political chaos, and it’s only fitting that we recognize those who have truly earned the title of “Hot Mess.”
Don’t forget to vote and share your thoughts—after all, this is Buffoon of the Year, and the drama is far from over.
