The ARD’s US election special failed to capture the excitement surrounding an anticipated Democratic surge, according to a television review. The programme opened with presenter Marc Steinhäuser greeting viewers in the early hours, while political scientist Klemens Fischer played down the prospect of a major shift in power.
Steinhäuser asked whether Donald Trump might become a “lame duck” after the election or instead remain a disruptive force. Fischer dismissed the prospect of celebrating potential results, arguing that Trump would govern around Congress and block its work.
The review describes Fischer’s response as a mood dampener early in the broadcast. Before viewers could change channels themselves, the ARD switched to a live feed of ABC News.
Sources: Süddeutsche Zeitung.