The continual advancement of communication technologies has stretched an already thin veil protecting candidates from constant scrutiny. Unlike 20 years ago when talking-heads dominated political speak on the various mainline networks, today's candidates face an even deeper and more cross-cultured criticism. This blog is a perfect example. The dominance of the political primaries has forced candidates to become more universal. Instead of concentrating on particular issues that may concern a cross-section of the electorate, such as the Iraq war or the economy, candidates today must have a position on nearly all issues or risk losing delegates and in turn the party nomination. I believe this is why the recent presidential elections have been so close. Aside from party-line issues such as their approach to taxes or labor, the two parties have essentially become universal.
In the same fashion, congressional candidates are under more scrutiny as they represent small regions of the voting spectrum. Internet forums, blogs and activist groups have given the rank and file voters a larger influence aside from voting itself. Congressional candidates must take these seriously as in recent years they have proven to turn the tide in favor of one party over another much like we've just witnesses in the recent elections that now have the Democrats in firm control of both the Senate and the House.
Looking back to the 2008 presidential elections, it seems evident that the candidates are aware of the capabilities of the Internet (look for yourself-Obama). Obviously at this stage the winner of the election has more to post. Obama's site is full of stories ranging from state concerns to the state of our flailing economy. Its evident that the Obama campaign has utilized the Internet as a tool to not only propel his party to victory but to continue to build a base on a community level.
In conclusion, it is evident that as media advances so must the candidates and the campaign strategies. In future elections, candidates that fail to include the community driven qualities of the Internet and related forums, will most likely suffer at the polls.
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What do you mean by "universal?"
ReplyDeleteWhat I mean by universal is that they appeal to a very broad range of interests if not all. Both parties have something to offer both side of the fence if you will. As a result the distinctions between them, in my opinion have faded to a degree. Perhaps universal was a bad word choice.
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