Watching CNN this morning, I saw the rather obsessive coverage of the rumors of Chelsea Clinton’s upcoming wedding. While I certainly hope that Ms. Clinton and her husband to be have a wonderful marriage and a happy life, I was a bit dismayed by the excessive coverage. After all, while her parents are important political figures, the wedding is not what I would consider a matter for serious news coverage. Now, if it had been a diplomatic wedding intended to end a war, then some coverage would have been in order.
While I paid little attention to the coverage, I did note that the event is supposed to cost $3 million and that the airspace over it will be closed off by the FAA.
While the Clintons are free to spend whatever they wish on a wedding, such extravagance seems to be a matter of concern. In the case of normal folks, the current advice is to rein in wedding spending and instead use the money for more practical and lasting things. However, since Chelsea will almost never have to worry about money, this sort of concern is hardly a factor.
After mentally wishing the couple luck, I thought about the stark contrast between the $3 million wedding and the economic plight of so many Americans. As Chelsea says her vows, many Americans will be looking for work. As she eats her cake, many Americans will receive foreclosure notices. Such extravagance in these times seems a bit questionable.
Then again, perhaps this is an excellent example of trickle down economics: the fabulously wealthy Clintons spend $3 million on a wedding and this trickles down money to those involved, such as the waiters who will be working there and the folks making the cake. Also, people who are out of work and poor can enjoy watching news of the event on the TV in the local coffee shop, thus lifting their spirits.
Naturally, I feel like something of a jerk to offer any criticisms of someone’s wedding. After all, that is supposed to be a special and magical day. One might wonder what sort of parents Bill and Hilary would be if they held a modest $500,000 wedding and gave $2.5 million to help people who have lost their jobs or there homes.
That said, I do sincerely wish the couple the best.
