This article seemed perfect given our recent discussion on the interaction between media and politics. Fred Thompson sent out a massive e-mail asking for contributions to help air television advertisements in Iowa and South Carolina.
This hits several topics we talked about. For one, it takes us back to the Sabato readings and about the impact the internet has on campaigning. The advent of e-mail lets a politician sent out a cry for help to his or her constituents in a matter of minutes. The benefit to this is you know the people on your mailing list are interested, and will probably actually skim your e-mail rather than immediately deeming it junk mail. E-mails are also free for the most part, making it a very cost-effective option.
Of course, it also applies to our last essays, specifically the Congress in 30 Seconds prompt. Television, while the most effective medium for advertisements, is also the most expensive. Determining which outlet while give an advertiser the “most bang for their buck” is important, and is why Thompson has decided to air the ads in Iowa and South Carolina, two key early states. The article says:
However, Thompson's e-mail pitch is more straightforward than most: he asks supporters to cover the cost of an entire 30-second ad, and outlines just how much the campaign says those ads will cost in different media markets.
Because of the cost of television, Thompson needs to appeal to his supporters for funds. If he was asking me to pay for his entire commercial, I personally would want to be in it. :)
Maybe if Fred Thompson had gotten his act together sooner and actually recognized that campaigning for President of the United States takes some effort, he wouldn’t have to be so worried about coming up with money for a few commercials.
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