Frank Capra's controversial 1939 film "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington- tells the story of a young, nave and inexperienced politician who is brought to Washington to replace the recently-deceased fictional Senator Samuel Foley. The film has a number of themes, but one that stands out beyond most is the idea that the press controls the public's opinion of a politician. They can make one out to be either a dedicated, hard-working public servant or a self-centered, power-hungry individual. Through the use of characters such as Governer Hopper, Jim Taylor, Senator Paine, and Chick McGann, we see how Capra views politics in Washington. .
When Mr. Smith (James Stewart) is appointed, he is unable to recognize why he was chosen. However, we soon find out that it is not because of Smith's desire to work in Washington that he was hired- or his values- but rather the fact that, as a young and nave "kid,"" Hopper and Taylor feel that he'll be an easy person to influence and vote for their corrupt Willet Creek Dam project. .
Smith's first encounter with the press turns out to be a disaster. He is asked what projects he would like to push and then takes the opportunity to reveal his plans for a summer boy's camp. He also jokes around with the press by making birdcalls. The headlines in the next-morning's paper are taken out of context and are intended to make Smith look like a fool. .
When Smith is about to be sworn in, an opposing member of Congress appeals his confirmation because of the way he is portrayed in the papers. He feels that Smith brings shame to the office, but Paine quickly defends him. Smith later sees the paper and is outraged at how the press portrayed him. He rushes over to the Press Club and physically and verbally attacks the writers. One of them, after bringing Smith under control, says something particularly telling about the media. In response to Smith's demand for the truth, he responds "If it's the truth you want, what are you doing in the Senate?- This statement confirms one of the themes that Capra is painting: that both the United States government and press are corrupt.