The story follows Jefferson Smith (Jimmy Stewart), an everyday American, on his journey to become a United States Senator. Smith aims to use his new position to make the country a better place.

The film’s focus on political corruption and the obligation politicians have to defend the American people is still relevant today, especially with people concerned the outcome of the upcoming election will have a negative impact on the country.

Smith promises to be a man of the people, but soon realizes he is in over his head as he is pressured to abandon his ideals by his fellow senators. Many of his fellow politicians do not share Smith’s intentions, instead hoping to use their position for their own personal benefit.

Many of these politicians answer to Jim Taylor (Edward Arnold), a corrupt political boss who uses his government allies to pass laws that benefit the wealthy. Many people in the middle-class fear a similar situation due to Donald Trump’s recent partnership with billionaire Elon Musk, concerned he will only help the wealthy if elected.

Although this corruption rattles Smith a little at first, he realizes he is in a position that allows him to take a stand and fight for the American people. It is hard not to root for Smith in this situation, as political corruption is a harsh reality that has had a negative effect on countless people.

Taylor and his allies have false information about Smith printed in an attempt to expel him from Congress. Smith fights back by launching a filibuster, forcing the Senate to listen to him. Facing an entire government by himself in defense of the American people, his actions are nothing short of inspiring.

For 25 hours, Smith lectures the Senate on the principles of America, and reaffirms his intent to keep fighting for the people. Even when he is on the brink of collapse, Smith keeps going.

Eventually Smith becomes exhausted and collapses, with the Senate watching in shock. Senator Joseph Paine (Claude Rains), one of Taylor’s allies in the Senate, is overcome with remorse and finally admits Smith’s innocence.

When viewed today, the story of “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington” is all too familiar. Many of the politicians in the film act only in the interest of money, a situation that still exists in the world.

Taylor using the media to spread misinformation about Smith is a situation that is not uncommon in today’s political climate. Spreading misinformation about a political candidate of another party is a tactic used by many politicians.

Despite political corruption still existing in America today there are still those that are willing to stand against it, just as Smith was willing to do.