Pop goes the president

Pop Idol -style television shows could be used to elect politicians.

Plans are afoot in the US to develop a show that will hunt for untapped political leadership skills just as Pop Idol sought undiscovered musical talent. The winner would be put forward as "the people's candidate" to run for president in 2004.

Cable network FX has joined forces with Austin Powers director Jay Roach and producers R. J. Cutler and Tom Lassally on an ambitious long-term project called American Candidate , according to Variety magazine.

Would-be contestants will have to compile videotapes in which they explain why they would make a great president. The process is likely to begin in January 2003, with the first episode broadcast the following year.