Abstract
The article looks at the phenomenon of the metaphor and gives the definition of this notion; gives a detailed analysis of the process of metaphorisation; points out the main functions of the metaphor, defines the function which is of utmost importance for political linguistics; provides study data in the sphere of social psychology and linguistics that prove the point about the influence of metaphors on the perception of the recipient; defines the role of the family metaphor among metaphors in political rhetoric; points out the cognitive models that underlie the rhetoric of political parties; analyzes the address by President Barack Obama with the view of defining the metaphor dominant in the text; points out the role of the family metaphor in this type of text; provides conclusions about the pragmatic potential of the family metaphor in political rhetoric.