Most sensible people avoid discussing politics and religion at dinner. Hacks, however, find politics much more interesting than their marriages or children.
Last week at the Frontline, dinner was dominated by that old chestnut, the disconnect between politicians and young people. Two young Asian journalists were debating the pros and cons of Respect MP George Galloway's stint on Celebrity Big Brother.
"Well, he probably did it because it would help make him more attractive to young voters," they said.
I feel sorry for the poor people - young or old - who voted for Galloway, thinking that he would actually do something to help improve their lives and businesses. Instead, he disappeared for several weeks to cavort in a house with other 'celebrities': Dennis Rodman, Rula Lenska and Pete Burns.
Is it any wonder that young voters are staying away in the UK and the US? Gordon Brown wants to lower the British voting age to 16, but why should anyone vote, when George Galloway holds the worst record for answering emails from his constituents?
Politicians like to blame the media for young voter apathy because we supposedly make them look ridiculous. They do fine on their own, by going hunting - just ask US Vice President Dick Cheney.
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