In "Rights at Risk: The Limits of Liberty in Modern America," David K. Shipler discusses the importance of maintaining a level of irreverence around political leaders. He argues that when presidents are surrounded by sycophants, they can become complacent and disconnected from the realities faced by citizens. Seeing demonstrators wearing rude T-shirts can serve as a wake-up call, reminding the president that not everyone is in agreement and that criticism is a vital aspect of democracy.

Shipler also highlights the aversion of White House aides to any disruption, especially in an era where public events are meticulously choreographed for television. The desire to control the narrative often leads to a sanitized environment where opposing voices are marginalized. This reliance on stage-managed appearances can prevent presidents from engaging with genuine public sentiment, ultimately undermining the democratic process and the rights of citizens to express dissent.