Ep 8. Gomez, the People's Choice

As much as the Addams family is used to causing chaos, there comes a moment when Gomez takes center-stage as the subject of an election. In the eighth episode of the second season, titled "Gomez, the People's Choice," the Addams clan uncovers a sign that reads: "Gomez Addams for Councilman" in their yard. Much to Gomez's bewilderment, he doesn't know who put it there--but he's ecstatic, nonetheless.

Initially reluctant to run, Gomez concedes to the request of the family and sets out with the intention to lose. However, as he meets voters and uses his natural personality and charisma to win them over, he finds himself genuinely invested in the race. Soon, it becomes clear that the campaign is the only thing on everyone's mind. Pugsley comes up with a campaign slogan to "Vote for Gomez and You Will Never Be Tired Again," while Uncle Fester comes up with the idea to form a "Gomez For Council Committee."

As the campaign construction continues, it becomes more apparent that Gomez has more of a chance than he ever thought possible. This leads to a series of consequences and reactions that affect the entire family. Morticia knits beanies and scarves for their canvassers, Wednesday screens a movie about political campaigns, and Cousin Itt gives his endorsement on the radio. Everything is in place for Gomez to win the election, except for the Addams family's biggest competitor--a group of Glad-Handing politicians who make their way into the campaign as Gomez's opponents.

Despite their efforts, the family members remain calm and upbeat as the election day draws closer. Gomez is well-liked, and everyone believes he has a fighting chance. But when Election Day rolls around, the family succumbs to anxiety and fear.

As excitement and enthusiasm reign upon the Addams household, the race slowly begins to take its toll on the family. Members of the family begin to rely more on worry than hope, and the fear of a political loss permeates throughout the house. The family members can't bear the thought of the campaign bringing pain to dear Gomez.

When night rolls around, Gomez is filled with hope and confidence that he's going to win. In the meantime, Pugsley has built an electric calculator to tally the votes, each running through the mysterious machine at a staggering speed. Skeletal fingers nervously clutch at votes that slip in the slot, each member of the family unsure of how they will show up on the Addams calendar.

As morning arrives, Gomez and Morticia listen anxiously as reports start trickling in about the election. But a sudden accident with the treasurer's vote book leads to an unexpected turn of events. The candidates are evenly tied, and Gomez must face his toughest test yet--a rematch election. Morticia fears that Gomez may lose his spark if he loses this election and, in a close race, fear begins to set in once again.

The family gathers for a mournful goodbye as it seems as though the election is lost, but Gomez does not show defeat. He consults with his supporters and follows their recommendations. Hope takes over the house as voting booths all over town line up to ensure that Gomez will be elected by a landslide.

"Gomez, the People's Choice" is an episode that displays excellent writing and perfect character development. The election sub-plot is unique but not too far out of the realm of the Addams universe, and it provides plenty of opportunities for laughs along the way. As it always does, the episode brings what the Addams Family does best: combining macabre humor with heart and family unity. Ultimately, the episode is a tribute to Gomez's magnetism, an integral part of what makes him the Addams house patriarch.