It’s hard to imagine that many British citizens will be moved to cast their ballots in Thursday’s general election because Simon Cowell, the curmudgeonly mastermind behind such showbiz gems as “Britain’s Got Talent” and “American Idol,” thinks they should.

However, even though he himself admits “I have always hated celebrities lecturing people on politics,” Cowell makes his case anyway with a piece in Wednesday’s edition of that newspaper of renown, The Sun, hoping to inspire voters to do their part. Turns out he’s even personally met two of the candidates! Here’s how he stacks the deck. –KA

The Sun:

Tomorrow is the big day. Here’s my opinion of the three party leaders if you want it. I have met two of them.

I have spoken with Gordon and his wife on several occasions. They were both charming and Gordon is a very sincere man who I respect.

He has given a lot of support for our shows and artists but I worry after all of this time how much more energy he can devote to a huge task ahead of him.

I have met David on two occasions. I liked him immediately. I trust him and he was very quick to commit to helping with a serious funding deficit for a children’s hospice charity I am involved with.

I have always trusted my gut instinct – and this was a guy who I thought would do the right things for this country.

I believe he is the Prime Minister Britain needs at this time. He has substance and the stomach to navigate us through difficult times.

I have yet to meet Nick Clegg but he is made for TV. I worry about a lot of his policies and I don’t get a clear direction of what he stands for.

Read more

WAIT, BEFORE YOU GO…

If you're reading this, you probably already know that non-profit, independent journalism is under threat worldwide. Independent news sites are overshadowed by larger heavily funded mainstream media that inundate us with hype and noise that barely scratch the surface. We believe that our readers deserve to know the full story. Truthdig writers bravely dig beneath the headlines to give you thought-provoking, investigative reporting and analysis that tells you what’s really happening and who’s rolling up their sleeves to do something about it.

Like you, we believe a well-informed public that doesn’t have blind faith in the status quo can help change the world. Your contribution of as little as $5 monthly or $35 annually will make you a groundbreaking member and lays the foundation of our work.

SUPPORT TRUTHDIG