American Idol is a singing competition, a national phenomenon, the most successful show on television, and at its heart, an election. The candidates may be called contestants, but they are all vying to win the title of American Idol in the same way that a bevy of Democrats are currently vying for the title of President of the United States. And like these political candidates, Idol candidates will be chosen not only based on who will do the best job, but by the size of the constituency to which they appeal. (Phil McCarten / AP)
