Swing Vote is a 2008 satirical comedy-drama film directed by Joshua Michael Stern and starring Kevin Costner, Paula Patton, Kelsey Grammer, and Dennis Hopper. The film revolves around the character of Bud Johnson, an underachieving, irresponsible, and politically indifferent New Mexico man, who is surprised to learn that his vote in the upcoming presidential election will decide the result of the entire election.
Bud's daughter, Molly, is politically engaged and disapproves of her father's apathy. However, when Bud drunkenly forgets to vote on election day, the voting machine in his polling station malfunctions and records his vote as an invalid one. A court hearing is held, and it is decided that Bud's vote must be recast in ten days. The candidates and their campaigns suddenly take a keen interest in Bud, prompting him to learn about the issues and ultimately become a swing voter who could decide the election.
As the countdown to the revote begins, Bud becomes the center of attention from the political campaigns, the media, and the citizens of the United States. The two presidential candidates, Republican incumbent Andrew Boone (Grammer) and Democratic challenger Donald Greenleaf (Hopper), engage Bud in a series of televised debates, each offering to earn his endorsement.
As the deadline approaches and the drama intensifies, Bud must make a tough decision, not only affecting the election but also the lives of those around him. The outcome of the election relies solely on his vote, and he ultimately finds the courage to make a choice that could change the future of the nation.
Swing Vote received mixed reviews from critics. However, Kevin Costner's performance as Bud Johnson was widely praised, with many critics stating that the film was elevated by his performance. Ultimately, Swing Vote serves as a reminder of the power of the individual and how even the most seemingly insignificant among us can make a difference.
