For this final discussion, let's think ahead to the final unit and discuss some of the topics before we complete the reading or lectures. Write a reflective response (4-5 sentences each) to each of the three prompts below.
1. In your experience with political campaigns, do they matter? What sorts of influences do they have?
2. In the next unit spend some time talking about who turns out to vote and why. But, before you view the lecture, what do you think it is that makes someone more or less likely to turn out to vote? Can campaigns affect this?
3. If you were advising Donald Trump about running again in 2024 and Joe Biden about running for re-election, what advice would you give to each of them on how to win?
To add your reply, click "add a new discussion topic," type your response to each of the questions, and then make sure to click "post to forum." Then, check out some of your fellow classmate's responses and make sure to reply (as discussed in the syllabus) to at least two of your classmates' responses before 7/8 at 11:59pm.
1- Personally, I think that political campaigns do matter. I can honestly say that I do not usually enjoy watching them but sometimes they can be beneficial. I think that they do have an influence on a voter’s opinion and can ultimately influence their voting decision. In addition to influencing a voter’s decision, they can persuade a voter’s attitude to shift or align with that of the political candidate. This type of attitude change can lead to more research on certain topics or overlooking other issues. Allowing the voter to either go against or with their personal beliefs.
2- I think there are many things that can lead to a low or high voter turnout. Personally, I think that voter turnout is higher when the candidates are either all very likable or some are very unlikable. This is because the voter is more compelled to vote for or against the other candidates. Overall, I think the use of media can cause voters to feel overwhelmed and lead them to not participate in voting. Also, I believe that a voter will be more compelled to run if they have a candidate that really caters to their personal beliefs.
3- I think most people will agree with me when saying that I would advise Donald Trump to be less active on social media. Not everything that you think needs to be shared. With that I think he should apologize for some of the information he put online that was inappropriate. Also, I think it would be wise for him to point out the mistakes that have been made through the Biden Administration. I think in doing this Trump would have a good shot at reelection. For Biden, I think he would either need to fix the inflation mess we are in right now or discuss how he plans to fix it. The middle and lower class cannot continue to live with these prices and it should be a priority.