Messaging? Why is this so hard? There are already some great ideas listed in these comments. But I would emphasize the basics of life:
"Get the lead out" - show pictures of kids drinking water - list the towns and cities that have still have lead pipes
"Feed our kids" - show some emaciated AMERICAN children - explain that Democratic funding cut child poverty in half!
"Save our bridges" - show a bridge collapsing - run a list of bridges across the country that are certified as unsafe.
"Make voting safe and easy!" - in simple terms, explain how states have used "mail in voting" for years with no problems - states that are red!
"Label Republicans as DO NOTHINGs on the public payroll" - try to make a list of Republican programs that have been helpful to Joe and Jane Sixpack .... just try, no really try hard. Show that face that says " can't". This one is easy peasy.
Democrats need to hire some really good film makers who can scare the crap out of the public and do it effectively. Please tell why it should be hard to make the general public angry at Republicans.
Those stories should be on TV. But more effectively, they need to be on YouTube and Tictok - all over Facebook and Instagram. Using social media is more effective - once something is really clever and it goes viral, it costs nothing. Truth? TV is for old people. Whatever the message, it needs to be smart, quick and entertaining enough to be seen on a phone. Yes, young folks watch TV shows. But while they are doing that they are also staring at their phones.
This is not hard! We have so much ammunition, it's a joke. Now it takes motivation, focus and persistence. Take a hint from TFG. Take the oxygen out of the room.
Excellent, Bill! Optics have been grabbed and held ransom by the Reactionary Elites (Bush the Elder onward) for decades now. Time to take back the graphics!!
I regretfully believe that the people we need to sway care most about the pot hole on their street and not the bridges somewhere else. If they don't have children in poverty or need child care, they won't be moved. If it isn't their job saved, it doesn't matter much. Social justice and prison reform, etc. are someone else's issue
Lead in the pipes, broadband internet, someone else health really don't matter. That's why culture wars work. They are personal. They touch people.
So make Republican's getting wealthy on our money a culture war issue. Republican politicians are scamming you. They have what you don't, but your paying for it. Show the limo and ask how it's paid for and what are you getting from them. They're laughing at the you who pay them but do nothing for you. Could you do as little as they do and keep your job? Do you get driven around in a limo? Do you have all those benefits and donors? Do you have a cushy pension?
Reading the comments that follow demonstrates the vacuousness of "Progressive ideation", as well as "Reactionary gospels".
Goebbels and Stalin would be proud.
Stalin suborned western journalists such as Walter Duranty, who famously wrote of the Ukraine famine in the New York Times: “There is no actual starvation, but there is widespread mortality from diseases due to malnutrition.”
Is that what you mean by "messenging" over "optics"?
One of the Democratic bodies, maybe the DCCC, noticed that people don't know what is in these bills the Democrats have been wrangling over. How about some national advertising: 1) Democrats will be repairing roads, bridges, and highways! 2) No more lead pipes. Democrats fixing the country's water supply! 3) Remember what happened in Texas. Democrats are fixing the country's power grid. 4) Thinking about an electric car? Democrats will install charging stations. Once the interminable conversation about the "health and kids" bill (reconciliation bill) is over, we might see advertisements: 5) Someone is finally taking on the climate crisis. Democrats bring you clean energy. 6) Build a better education system. Start with the youngest kids. Democrats bring you universal preschool. 7) Let's hear it for the Democrats. Because of them, seniors will hear what you say. 8) Democrats take tax credits for children seriously. That will make a difference in your life.
Democrats need to put some money into these advertisements now. As they tell us when they ask for money -- early money makes a difference.
I read/ watch their messages, but too often I find they err on the side of being too vague. There is a sweet spot using a single powerful example which would stand up to fact checking (as if, right?) rather than vague terms too many people may not know the intended referenced pool of information.
This is excellent because it is telling people exactly what is being done that benefits all of us. I would add one thing: that each democrat say the above and name the republicans who voted against these and give a link to the republican's vote as proof. WE don't have to say nasty things about republicans just show the people the evidence of what they are doing. Keep reminding people that the programs they want, the benefits they want republicans are against. Also, remind people that those who are telling lies about COVID vaccinations are people who have been L. EVERY DEMOCRAT MUST KEEP SAYING THESE THINGS (ONLY THINGS THEY CAN PROVE) BECAUSE REPUBS ARE WINNING THE MESSAGING BATTLE BECAUSE THEY SAY THE SAME THING OVER AND OVER AGAIN UNTIL PEOPLE BELIEVE IT. Remember, Donald Trump started saying "if I don't win the election it will be because of fraud. Now, a large group of Repubs believe in the "false fraud" claim.
Yes, messaging needs to be TRUTHFUL, organized, direct, civil, catchy and posted and repeated EVERYWHERE. We simply MUST join the race for media messaging oxygen! I also believe we need to go a step beyond postcards to voters and send notes to the cable news networks regarding their responsibility for democracy supporting journalism. I’ve written emails to a couple (with no response, of course), but what if they were to get swamped with requests for real, professional journalism? But, that does beg the question of how to reach them with any kind of clout. They must be feeling the pains of viewer loss to sources of real writing by thinkers and movers from places such as on Substack. Not having TV in over thirty years, I’ve not been indoctrinated by news networks and only go looking, by way of Youtube, but cannot stand to get through even short episodes, for all the unwarranted hyperbole. So my question here is shouldn’t we be sending messages to news networks, as much as everything else mentioned in today’s comments? And any suggestions how to go about it?
I also think it’s really important to name the Democrats in the area where construction is going on—“This project is brought to you by [state name] Democrats Sen X and US House member X.” Put those signs AT construction sites. Don’t list gop names there. That’s free publicity for the gop. Mention them maybe in media. But I think it’s way more important to get the names of the Democrats out there so people can connect them with progress and improvements to their lives.
Only thing I would add to this is that everywhere there is construction or some improvements made due to policies and work of Democratic work we put out signs up everywhere to say “improvement in progress due to Democrats”. Or something like that so that anyone passing by can see it!! Give a link on the sign where they can go and check the facts.
Yes. In order to deliver the messages and make an impact, I would like to see them engage some excellent film makers and flood the market with an effective blend of story telling and education. It is sorely needed
And hopefully reach out to a non democratic audience as well. It is difficult to change peoples mindsets but possible with the right kind of stories and messaging. Filmmakers do it all the time
At the level of races for Senate and House, every Dem running against a Rep incumbent needs to put something like this on repeat: Our state will be getting $xxx for repairing our roads and bridges, thanks to President Biden's vision and Democrats in Congress making it law! Rep/Sen So-and-So [say the name, not something stupid like "my esteemed opponent] voted against it. Our state will be getting $xxx to expand broadband access to those without it. Rep/Sen So-and-So voted against it. Etc. A nice, long list of the things that the majority of us want (and yes, that smug 1% needs to pay their fair share to fund it). In ads, in speeches. Repeat, repeat. And a similar message for Dem incumbents, along the lines of the Rep Party has opposed all of this, taking credit with their constituents for the good stuff, neglecting to say they voted against it.
Yep. Every bridge under construction, every improvement with any physical location associated should have huge signs saying "Safer Bridge Courtesy of Build Back Better" - where deep red localities won't agree to post it, find a bill board to rent. Except road work. I've never seen road work that doesn't irritate drivers no matter how needed! For road work, EG "Extra Lane Courtesy of Build Back Better" after the cones are gone.
The Lincoln Project produced a video advertisement which included the following: “For four years, Donald Trump promised us infrastructure week. The so-called builder said only he could deliver on roads, bridges, and airports, but who got the job done? Joe Biden. Action, not talk. Results, not tweets. Millions of new jobs. Billions for the economy Donald Trump wrecked. Serving America instead of serving himself. Joe Biden. Building Back Better.”
A member of the LP's leadership said: “For the entirety of Donald Trump’s only term, we waited on ‘Infrastructure Week,’ In his first year in office, President Biden provided the leadership necessary to deliver a once-in-a-generation investment on behalf of the American people. Build Back Better, unlike Infrastructure Week, is more than a slogan — it’s a promise.”
Whatever we think of the leadership of the Lincoln Project, the Democratic leadership should connect with these people who know how to message.
Exactly! We have plenty of content. Solid positions. Big accomplishments. Really big! But we need to deliver the message in a way that pounds it home - over and over and over.
Actually, I think very highly of the Lincoln Project. They have not only recognized the monster that they created in the past by supporting Republicans, they are now atoning for their past mistakes. They even offered their ad to the Democrats: "Just slap a Democratic sticker on this ad and go for it".
Mr Lubinsky, when was this video produced? Is it being aired now? Could be a starter and build off of it. I personally did like what Lincoln Project did for our country and how well the messaging is done.
Why do ALL commentators refer to the BBB plan as a Social SPENDING Plan? Everyone dislikes spending. Why not Social Services Plan? I notice that military bills are not “military spending “ bills, but “defense authorization” bills., ( and 7 trillion over ten years, not 2 trillion).
(I don't know how to correct a comment typo short of deleting and replacing the whole comment.) I keep finding myself asking "who came up with That name"? "Defund the Police" instead of "Public Safety Reform" perhaps, or the controversial sounding "Abortion Rights" opposing the ever so positive sounding "Right to Life" (who could vote against Life?!) instead of "Value Women" or "Saving Mothers" or something similar. I can't think of any other examples right off, but see them frequently. It goes right down to the level of right and left - once in awhile I find myself having to re-frame a sentence in order to avoid implying there is something inherently correct about Republican positions.
(Slaps forehead) True - so I guess "we" didn't come up with it... but it just shows how the struggle to name is important or it wouldn't be such a tug of war.
I sit in on a framing seminar through Connections Lab. (www.connectionslab.org) I highly recommend it. The focus of the seminars is how Democrats should frame the message. The first thing we should do is stop mentioning the GOP lies. Do not REPEAT their messaging. Particularly on social media. Do not amplify the lies. Second- Dems need to message in emotions and not a litany of facts. It has been proven that people respond to a personal story over an argument laced with facts. They also have discussed, just like the folks in this forum, that Dems need to repeat the good things Biden has accomplished ad nauseum. I personally think the DNC should hire an ad firm to get their "message " out.
Hi, Liz. I will check out connections lab. Thanks for the recommendation.
Can others weigh in on social media? I confess that I have made a decision not to be on Twitter or Facebook because I believe they are net negatives in people's lives. But for those of you who spend time on social media, what do you think is effective?
Stalin suborned western journalists such as Walter Duranty, who famously wrote of the Ukraine famine in the New York Times: “There is no actual starvation, but there is widespread mortality from diseases due to malnutrition.”
I'm not on social media other than FB- and only in a limited way so not sure how to answer that. George Greene and his wife run Connections Lab based out of MN. He is terrific. The next workshop is on December 13th. He offers it for free but I usually contribute a nominal amount. Open to anyone.
Field Team 6 has social media storming every Wednesday from 11 am to 12 noon PST. They provide ready-made posts on current issues and registering Dems. You can join in from anywhere, select a social medium and choose posts to send out. Last Wednesday we had over 19 million impressions, sending over 4200 tweets and over 40k Likes and Retweets!
To continue Robert's theme of open mic. night, America’s comedy writers possess a wealth of talent when it comes to a turn of phrase and one-liners. Let’s enlist their help. Don’t laugh! Of course they will have to clean up their language and tone down the insults but that doesn’t mean they wouldn’t be effective communicators.
We’ve all laughed out loud or at least nodded in agreement with the likes of John Oliver, Samantha Bee, et al. Their teams of writers would be indispensable when it comes to hard hitting and emotional gut punches that the other team has been so successful with. Not to mention the manufactured crises and artificial issues that has been their hallmark. Turn loose the comedy team and see what we get.
How many times have you said “Why doesn’t my, fill in the blank (congressman, senator, etc.), say that?!? Some of that comes down to lack of boldness or integrity on their part but some of it is also due to the fact that not all politicians can think as fast as creative people trained in the arts of rhetoric and improv. They could easily write the necessary talking points plus the bumper sticker slogans that have aided the conservatives for all too long,
Democrats just need to find the guts to talk tough instead of trying to be the paragons of civility. Of course we all know what happens when you wrestle a pig in the mud but YOU CAN you come out as the winner.
Whatever the messaging is, it needs to be EVERYWHERE. On buses, billboards, newspapers (yes real newspapers and online newspapers), on envelopes from democratic organizations mail out but get thrown away (envelopes are more important in a way than what’s in them), touted by all democratic groups—community, state and national and college and high school groups. This messaging needs to go out all over the place (because the gop will use those spaces if Democrats don’t). And yes the message needs to be short, sweet and showing the results. I counted 26 different changes Biden has brought about in HCR’s Letter from 11/27/21.
Yes. EVERYWHERE. Saturation communicates commitment. I remember being mega impressed in a Canadian airport as to how the public space was used for messaging. Why not in US?
Also, town halls everywhere that are NOT STANDARD AND CUSTOMARY, but which get people engaged. They might, for example, focus on a theme: Democracy in Peril? What are 3 things we are NOT talking about that we should be talking about? Get people in groups of 5 with a skilled facilitator for an hour. Each group reports their 3 things to the total group. The Rep gets total list. Promises to make it public (their own communication to their constituents, newspaper, etc). Ask for an action people, including the legislator whose town hall it is, will take based on what has been revealed in the meeting. Follow up with another town hall based on what we learn from the previous one. Have bite-sized info available for distribution on Build Back Better, voting rights, gerrymandering. Etc. That info can also have a theme: What's in It for Me? What Does It Demand of Me? The more personal, the better. The town hall and all materials should model the very engagement we seek. It's a lot of work. The legislators should coordinate with local resources (especially local activists groups) to help produce the meetings. Legislators who hold this kind of meeting should be guided by the following: if you want to be interesting, be interested. The standard and customary format of public meetings is tired and worn out.
A simple first step is for Democrats to remind the nation of what proposals the DEMOCRATS put forth, with almost total GOP opposition. A short list: 40-hour work week, Social Security, Medicare, Civil Rights Legislation, Voting Rights Legislation, unemployment benefits, Fair Housing, women's rights, workplace protectios...I could go on, but you get the idea.
For some reason, the Democrats a re acting like it is business as usual. Obviously, it is not. We need to beat the Republicans at their own game.
First, I recommend that everyone read Heather Cox Richardson from November 27th. It is a positive take on Biden.
She also quoted journalist Magda Semrau as saying”Democrats want to fix bridges, provide childcare and lower drug costs. Republicans don’t. These are political facts and voters should be aware of them.”
What a simple plan of attack: Democrats want to …. ! Republicans don’t!
During the 2020 campaign, R’s refused to write a platform, instead their position was “whatever Tя☭mp wants.” That was always a cop-out, so what does the GOP actually stand for? The 3 biggest items are: Death, Racism, and Poverty.
by being anti-vax, anti-mask, anti-science, R’s are pro-DEATH. By the end of this year, we’ll be close to 800,000 Americans dead from Covid.
by pushing through all kinds of discriminatory election laws and favoring “open carry” and “stand your ground laws” R’s are pro-RACISM.
by overturning Roe v Wade and refusing to support family leave, childcare, and stimulus checks (R’s didn’t support any of those measures), they are pro-POVERTY.
Could we add to the list? sure, but any good ad campaign needs to be short and punchy. Death, racism, poverty.
It’s up to Dem’s to make the GOP own these policies by repeating them at every chance.
1. To combat ineffective messaging by Dems, hire a great public relations firm, or just fund the Lincoln Project, whose ads were so effective in the 2020 election.
2. Use Democratic celebrities to deliver the messages. People who will appeal to young voters. Quote John Lewis, historian Heather Cox Richardson, Abraham Lincoln (I’m adding him in.)
3. Keep messages short and succinct “Roads + Bridges”, “Children + Health Care”, “Taking care of Individuals + Taking Care of our Planet”, “Gun Control + Public Safety,” and use powerful images and personal stories to get the point across. Emphasize Services over Spending. And since Republicans are so anti-spending it’s important to hammer home how Trump raised the deficit by $7.8 billion to help the wealthy only. In local districts, mention Republican Congressmen by name who voted against BBB but are now taking credit for it.
4. Hit all social media platforms, You Tube, Tik Tok, as well as newspapers and Tv. Repeat, Repeat, Repeat these messages.
5. Call out Falsehoods and Authoritarianism wherever and whenever they raise their ugly heads. Use Whack-a-Mole approach. Indict insurrectionists, Rudy Giuliani, Steve Bannon, and anyone in Congress or on the streets on January 6th involved in the insurrection.
6. Ask billionaire Democrats (Michael Bloomberg? I wonder) to step up and counter the funding of the Rupert Murdoch/Koch brothers on the Republican side.
7. America is a huge country. Where we live influences our attitudes and economics. We need to act locally. Get involved in local politics. Set an example of acting for good, not tearing the fabric of our society apart.
Agree 100%! And we need a group of designated communicators who are energized, articulate, and likable. They must not be polarizing to Independents. Those communications leaders could include Stacey Abrams, Pete Buttigieg, Jon Tester, Amy Klobuchar, Cory Booker, Sherrod Brown etc etc.
My fantasy is that Biden would emulate FDR's "Fireside Chats." I see him delivering them from an armchair, with or without a fireplace, not from a lectern. Roosevelt's tone was declamatory. I recommend a more conversational one for Biden (Reagan was actually good at this). The highly structured "chats" stated the problem, gave the context, covered the implications for Americans, and laid out the plan of action. They dispelled, or tried to dispel, the sense that government is going on behind closed doors. Roosevelt didn't talk down to his listeners, but the talks used plain language. And, to my knowledge, he didn't use the phrase "hard working."
The so-called Chats were carefully scripted; Roosevelt read them from his version of a teleprompter. He was a good reader, with a sense of rhythm and prosody, and he had the benefit of being invisible to his audience, so he could focus on the text before him and his delivery.
I like this. A lot. But I am old. I like to relax and listen. The voters we need to reach won't have the patience for this. They need to see 30 second powerful repeatable messages - things they can share and will become viral. I love Joe and I understand his speech impediments. Most do not. He should continue operate quietly and effectively in the back ground. JMO.
Right, I agree, but I, too, like this idea. Something new. Maybe instead of a Fireside chat, a mini chat with a different clever name... (maybe keep "chat" in the name) just a few minutes of airtime talking about what he's done for the American people and their families. Something different each week. One week what he's done for families, one week what he's done for the American economy, the infrastructure, education, healthcare, etc.
I would go with it all for young and old. We need everyone. Perhaps his speech impediment could be catered to in a more personal seeming setting, or perhaps he could lead off with an acknowledgement Once (more) that it happens, so anyone pouncing on it is more apt to appear as the jerk they would be.
I participated in a teleconference w Biden speaking to donors after the infrastructure bill passed. He was awful. Tired, inarticulate, honestly embarrassing--it wasn't just his speech issues. And I'm a big fan of his! I do not think he can effectively carry out weekly fireside chats.
Hi, Jordan. That is good feedback for Biden's handlers at that event. I suspect fundraising is at the bottom of Joe's favorite activities. But getting him to speak to the American people about his empathy for their challenges is one of his strengths.
The "Fireside Chats" weren't weekly. They were mostly in response to particular events: the bank run, the Social Security Act, other specific topics. There were 30 in total, over a period of 11 years. I did start by calling it a "fantasy." That may be the most it can be.
Biden is much more comfortable speaking when he has someone conversing with him. His TV chats should always be "conversations"...not speeches....perhaps with people who have solid facts to support him...and to know how to intervene if he fumbles! If it sounds like he is lecturing, people will be turned off. How about Biden with Stacey Adams...or John Stewart...or Trevor Noah....or????
It doesn't have to be Biden (he's busy) it could be a revolving team of younger Dems. Monday with one Tuesday with another..., Repeat. Show the depth and diversity of the Dem's bench. Different focus by each one. Short, upbeat, very specific.
In my precinct a small group of us have started an initiative to contact registered voters, starting with Democrats and Independents and also "like minded Republicans". We are doing this by setting up a network of neighborhood leaders who will sponsor neighbor to neighbor civil discussions of issues. In 2020 the Democratic Election Committee in our county achieved a 93% participation of registered Democrats. Our effort focuses on insuring that all voters are able to vote despite Gov. DeSantis attempts to nullify or disqualify votes and by sponsoring civil discussions we hope to win over voters.
Hi, Charles. I second the comment below. Can we find a way to share your template? It sounds great. Send me an email at rhubbell@outlook.com. Let's talk.
I applaud your efforts here in FL. Would you please share a template of your group’s methods with each county in Florida. We desperately need that kind of organization and commitment all over the state!
I recently saw columnist Molly Jong-Fast discussing her op-ed in The Atlantic (below) asserting that “Biden Needs an Enemy.” She and others feel that, while Biden and the Democrats are already accomplishing great things by governing responsibly for the people, it is sadly not enough to convince the American people and prevent his drop in the polls. I have long held that the only way Democrats can win over the public’s confidence is to govern effectively and get something done. I am very pleased and proud that they are already far along in working down a list of nearly three dozen actions I posted over a year ago as essential. I am also grateful that they have not been goaded by sensationalist media and opinion polls into adopting authoritarian tactics of ginning up false enemies and fearmongering.
Biden and the Democrats have relied so far on the common good sense of the American people to see who is really in their corner and seem to have sensed that, above all, the public wants some normalcy. The Republicans, on the other hand and as they have in the past, are betting on the ignorance and gullibility of the public to fall for the propaganda of unjustified fear and mistrust of one another, disinformation and chaos, and outright lies – just as Russia and China delight in promoting from without. There is plenty of evidence that Republican tactics are working. We shall see come the next election.
If the Democrats wanted to pick an enemy on which to focus their message, I would agree with Heather Cox Richardson to pick the rise of authoritarianism here and in other countries around the world. It is real and an existential threat to our democracy that must be reversed. Biden is already convening a global conference to address this distressing trend and shore up democracy everywhere. If Republicans want to side with the global brutality of authoritarians, let them sell that to the American people.
All that aside, I do think Jong-Fast and the others make a very valid point that Democrats cannot allow Republicans to seize the narrative of who has the country’s best interests at heart. I’m glad to see that Biden has not made Obama’s mistake of not touting significant administration successes along the way. In fact Biden has been very effective at holding frequent press briefings and convincingly articulating the importance of remarkable administration and legislative progress. Still, Biden and his surrogates have got to do even better at clearly and simply pointing out how all these accomplishments can make a difference in people’s day-to-day lives, in reduced drug costs, the price of insulin capped at $35 a month, safe roads and bridges, rural access to broadband, etc. and, unlike Trump’s tax cuts for the super-rich, all without really increasing the deficit. Democrats must not allow pompous Republicans to claim credit for these ultimate benefits when they voted almost unanimously against all of them. The administration must mount a relentless campaign to explain, promote and take credit for these wins to counter Republicans’ never-ending, unscrupulous fog of lies. It wouldn’t be propaganda because it would be based on truth. The news media also bears a great responsibility in our democracy to give the public the truth until it sinks in, instead of taking the easy, profitable route of chasing nonsensical and outrageous behavior of a Lauren Boebert or Marjorie Taylor Greene.
Perception is often more important than reality, but what Americans desperately need now is well-orchestrated perception based on undeniable reality they can see before their very eyes.
Hi, David. Thanks for sharing your thoughtful comments. I will check out the article you mention in The Atlantic. i particularly like the notion of "a well-orchestrated perception based on undeniable reality."
Engage a highly successful marketing group to design creative, fun, engaging, memorable ads that promote all the positive things the Biden administration is doing for key target groups. Determine the most popular TV shows for each target, then buy ad time and run the ads on the dates/times most effective for that group (top marketing firms will have that info). Expensive, but I’ll bet some Hollywood and tech billionaires would ante up to cover the costs.
Yes! It’s going to take serious money to counter the entrenched Murdoch/Koch mindset not to mention foreign disruptor campaigns. Where are the decent billionaires when this country that has enabled their success needs them?
Agree. The DCCC and the senate companion (not sure of their name, have the money to spend touting what is in the bill and also that Biden’s tax credit for families has cut child poverty in half and, more importantly put money in the pockets of hard working Americans. Evidently Rep Susan Wild said people in her district think this was Trump, not Biden (probably conflating his weird child tax credit). Should also be running on Fox and in less expensive news markets.
Messaging? Why is this so hard? There are already some great ideas listed in these comments. But I would emphasize the basics of life:
"Get the lead out" - show pictures of kids drinking water - list the towns and cities that have still have lead pipes
"Feed our kids" - show some emaciated AMERICAN children - explain that Democratic funding cut child poverty in half!
"Save our bridges" - show a bridge collapsing - run a list of bridges across the country that are certified as unsafe.
"Make voting safe and easy!" - in simple terms, explain how states have used "mail in voting" for years with no problems - states that are red!
"Label Republicans as DO NOTHINGs on the public payroll" - try to make a list of Republican programs that have been helpful to Joe and Jane Sixpack .... just try, no really try hard. Show that face that says " can't". This one is easy peasy.
Democrats need to hire some really good film makers who can scare the crap out of the public and do it effectively. Please tell why it should be hard to make the general public angry at Republicans.
Those stories should be on TV. But more effectively, they need to be on YouTube and Tictok - all over Facebook and Instagram. Using social media is more effective - once something is really clever and it goes viral, it costs nothing. Truth? TV is for old people. Whatever the message, it needs to be smart, quick and entertaining enough to be seen on a phone. Yes, young folks watch TV shows. But while they are doing that they are also staring at their phones.
This is not hard! We have so much ammunition, it's a joke. Now it takes motivation, focus and persistence. Take a hint from TFG. Take the oxygen out of the room.
Excellent, Bill! Optics have been grabbed and held ransom by the Reactionary Elites (Bush the Elder onward) for decades now. Time to take back the graphics!!
Democrats build bridges Republicans ban books.
Great ideas. Three words or less + pictures. Then repeat, repeat, repeat.
Exactly except don't forget "old people" vote too. Every demographic.
Absolutely! great ideas!
Awesome! All great suggestions!
Excellent!
I regretfully believe that the people we need to sway care most about the pot hole on their street and not the bridges somewhere else. If they don't have children in poverty or need child care, they won't be moved. If it isn't their job saved, it doesn't matter much. Social justice and prison reform, etc. are someone else's issue
Lead in the pipes, broadband internet, someone else health really don't matter. That's why culture wars work. They are personal. They touch people.
So make Republican's getting wealthy on our money a culture war issue. Republican politicians are scamming you. They have what you don't, but your paying for it. Show the limo and ask how it's paid for and what are you getting from them. They're laughing at the you who pay them but do nothing for you. Could you do as little as they do and keep your job? Do you get driven around in a limo? Do you have all those benefits and donors? Do you have a cushy pension?
do you have as much vacation? Do you get to travel constantly?
OMG. These are so good! And put up billboards in the out burbs and along highways that allow them.
Reading the comments that follow demonstrates the vacuousness of "Progressive ideation", as well as "Reactionary gospels".
Goebbels and Stalin would be proud.
Stalin suborned western journalists such as Walter Duranty, who famously wrote of the Ukraine famine in the New York Times: “There is no actual starvation, but there is widespread mortality from diseases due to malnutrition.”
Is that what you mean by "messenging" over "optics"?
One of the Democratic bodies, maybe the DCCC, noticed that people don't know what is in these bills the Democrats have been wrangling over. How about some national advertising: 1) Democrats will be repairing roads, bridges, and highways! 2) No more lead pipes. Democrats fixing the country's water supply! 3) Remember what happened in Texas. Democrats are fixing the country's power grid. 4) Thinking about an electric car? Democrats will install charging stations. Once the interminable conversation about the "health and kids" bill (reconciliation bill) is over, we might see advertisements: 5) Someone is finally taking on the climate crisis. Democrats bring you clean energy. 6) Build a better education system. Start with the youngest kids. Democrats bring you universal preschool. 7) Let's hear it for the Democrats. Because of them, seniors will hear what you say. 8) Democrats take tax credits for children seriously. That will make a difference in your life.
Democrats need to put some money into these advertisements now. As they tell us when they ask for money -- early money makes a difference.
For those of you who do not know Len Lubinsky, he writes an excellent newsletter about Democratic candidates in races around the country. I subscribe. You should too! https://lenspoliticalnotes.com/lens-letter-45-senate-candidates-to-donate-to-now/
And, Len, great suggestions, all.
Yes! And consult with the Lincoln Project, or at least retain them as an advisor. Democrats need positive messaging with teeth, not just gums.
I believe that’s called “negative campaigning” and I’m for it! We should not shrink from negative campaigning that’s true.
I read/ watch their messages, but too often I find they err on the side of being too vague. There is a sweet spot using a single powerful example which would stand up to fact checking (as if, right?) rather than vague terms too many people may not know the intended referenced pool of information.
This is excellent because it is telling people exactly what is being done that benefits all of us. I would add one thing: that each democrat say the above and name the republicans who voted against these and give a link to the republican's vote as proof. WE don't have to say nasty things about republicans just show the people the evidence of what they are doing. Keep reminding people that the programs they want, the benefits they want republicans are against. Also, remind people that those who are telling lies about COVID vaccinations are people who have been L. EVERY DEMOCRAT MUST KEEP SAYING THESE THINGS (ONLY THINGS THEY CAN PROVE) BECAUSE REPUBS ARE WINNING THE MESSAGING BATTLE BECAUSE THEY SAY THE SAME THING OVER AND OVER AGAIN UNTIL PEOPLE BELIEVE IT. Remember, Donald Trump started saying "if I don't win the election it will be because of fraud. Now, a large group of Repubs believe in the "false fraud" claim.
Consistency over time and across Democratic candidates is key. We need a brand that is not defined by the vacuum that Republicans are filling.
I second Stacy Abrams, a woman who never admits defeat.
Yes, yes, yes. Republicans need to be personally held responsible for what they are NOT doing. Democrats should tout what they ARE doing!
Yes, messaging needs to be TRUTHFUL, organized, direct, civil, catchy and posted and repeated EVERYWHERE. We simply MUST join the race for media messaging oxygen! I also believe we need to go a step beyond postcards to voters and send notes to the cable news networks regarding their responsibility for democracy supporting journalism. I’ve written emails to a couple (with no response, of course), but what if they were to get swamped with requests for real, professional journalism? But, that does beg the question of how to reach them with any kind of clout. They must be feeling the pains of viewer loss to sources of real writing by thinkers and movers from places such as on Substack. Not having TV in over thirty years, I’ve not been indoctrinated by news networks and only go looking, by way of Youtube, but cannot stand to get through even short episodes, for all the unwarranted hyperbole. So my question here is shouldn’t we be sending messages to news networks, as much as everything else mentioned in today’s comments? And any suggestions how to go about it?
I also think it’s really important to name the Democrats in the area where construction is going on—“This project is brought to you by [state name] Democrats Sen X and US House member X.” Put those signs AT construction sites. Don’t list gop names there. That’s free publicity for the gop. Mention them maybe in media. But I think it’s way more important to get the names of the Democrats out there so people can connect them with progress and improvements to their lives.
Only thing I would add to this is that everywhere there is construction or some improvements made due to policies and work of Democratic work we put out signs up everywhere to say “improvement in progress due to Democrats”. Or something like that so that anyone passing by can see it!! Give a link on the sign where they can go and check the facts.
Good idea. Another quote for signs could be: "Brought to you by Democrats".
Yes - or put a QR code on it for instant info.
Oh oops! I hadn't found this comment when I made almost the exact same one! Count that as seconding the idea!
Yes, signs!
These messages are great! Simple, straightforward, and true. They must be amplified on many platforms so everyone can see them many times.
Yes. In order to deliver the messages and make an impact, I would like to see them engage some excellent film makers and flood the market with an effective blend of story telling and education. It is sorely needed
And hopefully reach out to a non democratic audience as well. It is difficult to change peoples mindsets but possible with the right kind of stories and messaging. Filmmakers do it all the time
At the level of races for Senate and House, every Dem running against a Rep incumbent needs to put something like this on repeat: Our state will be getting $xxx for repairing our roads and bridges, thanks to President Biden's vision and Democrats in Congress making it law! Rep/Sen So-and-So [say the name, not something stupid like "my esteemed opponent] voted against it. Our state will be getting $xxx to expand broadband access to those without it. Rep/Sen So-and-So voted against it. Etc. A nice, long list of the things that the majority of us want (and yes, that smug 1% needs to pay their fair share to fund it). In ads, in speeches. Repeat, repeat. And a similar message for Dem incumbents, along the lines of the Rep Party has opposed all of this, taking credit with their constituents for the good stuff, neglecting to say they voted against it.
Yes; and the messaging should be national--"branding" style so that Democrats have a consistent top-line message.
Absolutely!
Yep. Every bridge under construction, every improvement with any physical location associated should have huge signs saying "Safer Bridge Courtesy of Build Back Better" - where deep red localities won't agree to post it, find a bill board to rent. Except road work. I've never seen road work that doesn't irritate drivers no matter how needed! For road work, EG "Extra Lane Courtesy of Build Back Better" after the cones are gone.
Agreed
Great idea
Double ❣️
The Lincoln Project produced a video advertisement which included the following: “For four years, Donald Trump promised us infrastructure week. The so-called builder said only he could deliver on roads, bridges, and airports, but who got the job done? Joe Biden. Action, not talk. Results, not tweets. Millions of new jobs. Billions for the economy Donald Trump wrecked. Serving America instead of serving himself. Joe Biden. Building Back Better.”
A member of the LP's leadership said: “For the entirety of Donald Trump’s only term, we waited on ‘Infrastructure Week,’ In his first year in office, President Biden provided the leadership necessary to deliver a once-in-a-generation investment on behalf of the American people. Build Back Better, unlike Infrastructure Week, is more than a slogan — it’s a promise.”
Whatever we think of the leadership of the Lincoln Project, the Democratic leadership should connect with these people who know how to message.
Exactly! We have plenty of content. Solid positions. Big accomplishments. Really big! But we need to deliver the message in a way that pounds it home - over and over and over.
Actually, I think very highly of the Lincoln Project. They have not only recognized the monster that they created in the past by supporting Republicans, they are now atoning for their past mistakes. They even offered their ad to the Democrats: "Just slap a Democratic sticker on this ad and go for it".
Yes, Annette!
I’ve been thinking (shared on HCR’s substack) we need something like Politics Girls + Lincoln Project for messaging.
Mr Lubinsky, when was this video produced? Is it being aired now? Could be a starter and build off of it. I personally did like what Lincoln Project did for our country and how well the messaging is done.
I'm sorry to say that when I look for the reference, it has disappeared. 404 error message.
The video is still available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/x1NAvnF-HcE
Why do ALL commentators refer to the BBB plan as a Social SPENDING Plan? Everyone dislikes spending. Why not Social Services Plan? I notice that military bills are not “military spending “ bills, but “defense authorization” bills., ( and 7 trillion over ten years, not 2 trillion).
Keith
(I don't know how to correct a comment typo short of deleting and replacing the whole comment.) I keep finding myself asking "who came up with That name"? "Defund the Police" instead of "Public Safety Reform" perhaps, or the controversial sounding "Abortion Rights" opposing the ever so positive sounding "Right to Life" (who could vote against Life?!) instead of "Value Women" or "Saving Mothers" or something similar. I can't think of any other examples right off, but see them frequently. It goes right down to the level of right and left - once in awhile I find myself having to re-frame a sentence in order to avoid implying there is something inherently correct about Republican positions.
We call it "Pro Choice" By the way Right to Life used to be called Anti-Abortion
(Slaps forehead) True - so I guess "we" didn't come up with it... but it just shows how the struggle to name is important or it wouldn't be such a tug of war.
Absolutely Keith!!!
How about calling it The American Rejuvenation Plan?
I sit in on a framing seminar through Connections Lab. (www.connectionslab.org) I highly recommend it. The focus of the seminars is how Democrats should frame the message. The first thing we should do is stop mentioning the GOP lies. Do not REPEAT their messaging. Particularly on social media. Do not amplify the lies. Second- Dems need to message in emotions and not a litany of facts. It has been proven that people respond to a personal story over an argument laced with facts. They also have discussed, just like the folks in this forum, that Dems need to repeat the good things Biden has accomplished ad nauseum. I personally think the DNC should hire an ad firm to get their "message " out.
Hi, Liz. I will check out connections lab. Thanks for the recommendation.
Can others weigh in on social media? I confess that I have made a decision not to be on Twitter or Facebook because I believe they are net negatives in people's lives. But for those of you who spend time on social media, what do you think is effective?
This was discussed a lot. It is called a Truth Sandwich.
1. Start with the truth. The first frame gets the advantage.
2. Indicate the lie. Avoid amplifying the specific language if possible.
3. Return to the truth. Always repeat truths more than lies.
Stalin suborned western journalists such as Walter Duranty, who famously wrote of the Ukraine famine in the New York Times: “There is no actual starvation, but there is widespread mortality from diseases due to malnutrition.”
I'm not on social media other than FB- and only in a limited way so not sure how to answer that. George Greene and his wife run Connections Lab based out of MN. He is terrific. The next workshop is on December 13th. He offers it for free but I usually contribute a nominal amount. Open to anyone.
Field Team 6 has social media storming every Wednesday from 11 am to 12 noon PST. They provide ready-made posts on current issues and registering Dems. You can join in from anywhere, select a social medium and choose posts to send out. Last Wednesday we had over 19 million impressions, sending over 4200 tweets and over 40k Likes and Retweets!
Link to Field Team 6 social storming: https://share.fieldteam6.org/campaign/F6DDBE84-04F4-4C96-A5FA-7E22A07FEDDB
Absolutely, this is one of the best comments yet
Thank you! I forgot to mention that there are training sessions for newbies; anyone interested can sign up at https://www.mobilize.us/ft6/event/380307/
To continue Robert's theme of open mic. night, America’s comedy writers possess a wealth of talent when it comes to a turn of phrase and one-liners. Let’s enlist their help. Don’t laugh! Of course they will have to clean up their language and tone down the insults but that doesn’t mean they wouldn’t be effective communicators.
We’ve all laughed out loud or at least nodded in agreement with the likes of John Oliver, Samantha Bee, et al. Their teams of writers would be indispensable when it comes to hard hitting and emotional gut punches that the other team has been so successful with. Not to mention the manufactured crises and artificial issues that has been their hallmark. Turn loose the comedy team and see what we get.
How many times have you said “Why doesn’t my, fill in the blank (congressman, senator, etc.), say that?!? Some of that comes down to lack of boldness or integrity on their part but some of it is also due to the fact that not all politicians can think as fast as creative people trained in the arts of rhetoric and improv. They could easily write the necessary talking points plus the bumper sticker slogans that have aided the conservatives for all too long,
Democrats just need to find the guts to talk tough instead of trying to be the paragons of civility. Of course we all know what happens when you wrestle a pig in the mud but YOU CAN you come out as the winner.
Agree! See my comment above in response to suggestion that we need Tina Fey and Sarah Silverman to parody Greene, Boebert, etc
I agree, has to be at least whimsical, catch people off guard instead of earnest recital of facts which they will tune out
Whatever the messaging is, it needs to be EVERYWHERE. On buses, billboards, newspapers (yes real newspapers and online newspapers), on envelopes from democratic organizations mail out but get thrown away (envelopes are more important in a way than what’s in them), touted by all democratic groups—community, state and national and college and high school groups. This messaging needs to go out all over the place (because the gop will use those spaces if Democrats don’t). And yes the message needs to be short, sweet and showing the results. I counted 26 different changes Biden has brought about in HCR’s Letter from 11/27/21.
Yes. EVERYWHERE. Saturation communicates commitment. I remember being mega impressed in a Canadian airport as to how the public space was used for messaging. Why not in US?
Also, town halls everywhere that are NOT STANDARD AND CUSTOMARY, but which get people engaged. They might, for example, focus on a theme: Democracy in Peril? What are 3 things we are NOT talking about that we should be talking about? Get people in groups of 5 with a skilled facilitator for an hour. Each group reports their 3 things to the total group. The Rep gets total list. Promises to make it public (their own communication to their constituents, newspaper, etc). Ask for an action people, including the legislator whose town hall it is, will take based on what has been revealed in the meeting. Follow up with another town hall based on what we learn from the previous one. Have bite-sized info available for distribution on Build Back Better, voting rights, gerrymandering. Etc. That info can also have a theme: What's in It for Me? What Does It Demand of Me? The more personal, the better. The town hall and all materials should model the very engagement we seek. It's a lot of work. The legislators should coordinate with local resources (especially local activists groups) to help produce the meetings. Legislators who hold this kind of meeting should be guided by the following: if you want to be interesting, be interested. The standard and customary format of public meetings is tired and worn out.
YES!! Repeat everywhere. Short bullet points.
Hi Susan Robinson!
A simple first step is for Democrats to remind the nation of what proposals the DEMOCRATS put forth, with almost total GOP opposition. A short list: 40-hour work week, Social Security, Medicare, Civil Rights Legislation, Voting Rights Legislation, unemployment benefits, Fair Housing, women's rights, workplace protectios...I could go on, but you get the idea.
For some reason, the Democrats a re acting like it is business as usual. Obviously, it is not. We need to beat the Republicans at their own game.
First, I recommend that everyone read Heather Cox Richardson from November 27th. It is a positive take on Biden.
She also quoted journalist Magda Semrau as saying”Democrats want to fix bridges, provide childcare and lower drug costs. Republicans don’t. These are political facts and voters should be aware of them.”
What a simple plan of attack: Democrats want to …. ! Republicans don’t!
"Democrats are acting like it is business as usual"--that fact drives me to distraction! Democrats lack a sense of urgency.
Well hopefully between you and Professor Cox Richardson that is changing!
a lot of us are going nuts over that too
During the 2020 campaign, R’s refused to write a platform, instead their position was “whatever Tя☭mp wants.” That was always a cop-out, so what does the GOP actually stand for? The 3 biggest items are: Death, Racism, and Poverty.
by being anti-vax, anti-mask, anti-science, R’s are pro-DEATH. By the end of this year, we’ll be close to 800,000 Americans dead from Covid.
by pushing through all kinds of discriminatory election laws and favoring “open carry” and “stand your ground laws” R’s are pro-RACISM.
by overturning Roe v Wade and refusing to support family leave, childcare, and stimulus checks (R’s didn’t support any of those measures), they are pro-POVERTY.
Could we add to the list? sure, but any good ad campaign needs to be short and punchy. Death, racism, poverty.
It’s up to Dem’s to make the GOP own these policies by repeating them at every chance.
"Make them own these policies. . . " Agree!
To summarize some of the great suggestions here:
1. To combat ineffective messaging by Dems, hire a great public relations firm, or just fund the Lincoln Project, whose ads were so effective in the 2020 election.
2. Use Democratic celebrities to deliver the messages. People who will appeal to young voters. Quote John Lewis, historian Heather Cox Richardson, Abraham Lincoln (I’m adding him in.)
3. Keep messages short and succinct “Roads + Bridges”, “Children + Health Care”, “Taking care of Individuals + Taking Care of our Planet”, “Gun Control + Public Safety,” and use powerful images and personal stories to get the point across. Emphasize Services over Spending. And since Republicans are so anti-spending it’s important to hammer home how Trump raised the deficit by $7.8 billion to help the wealthy only. In local districts, mention Republican Congressmen by name who voted against BBB but are now taking credit for it.
4. Hit all social media platforms, You Tube, Tik Tok, as well as newspapers and Tv. Repeat, Repeat, Repeat these messages.
5. Call out Falsehoods and Authoritarianism wherever and whenever they raise their ugly heads. Use Whack-a-Mole approach. Indict insurrectionists, Rudy Giuliani, Steve Bannon, and anyone in Congress or on the streets on January 6th involved in the insurrection.
6. Ask billionaire Democrats (Michael Bloomberg? I wonder) to step up and counter the funding of the Rupert Murdoch/Koch brothers on the Republican side.
7. America is a huge country. Where we live influences our attitudes and economics. We need to act locally. Get involved in local politics. Set an example of acting for good, not tearing the fabric of our society apart.
Great ideas here! Would require a national Dem communications/strategy "czar". Any nominations?
Agree 100%! And we need a group of designated communicators who are energized, articulate, and likable. They must not be polarizing to Independents. Those communications leaders could include Stacey Abrams, Pete Buttigieg, Jon Tester, Amy Klobuchar, Cory Booker, Sherrod Brown etc etc.
Add Taylor Swift. To reach new generation or at least have a line to them. There are others I am sure. Someone from entertainment sector
George Lakoff
Robert Reich
I like his ideas and candor but think his visual presentation could be more fun.
Donnie Deutsch
My fantasy is that Biden would emulate FDR's "Fireside Chats." I see him delivering them from an armchair, with or without a fireplace, not from a lectern. Roosevelt's tone was declamatory. I recommend a more conversational one for Biden (Reagan was actually good at this). The highly structured "chats" stated the problem, gave the context, covered the implications for Americans, and laid out the plan of action. They dispelled, or tried to dispel, the sense that government is going on behind closed doors. Roosevelt didn't talk down to his listeners, but the talks used plain language. And, to my knowledge, he didn't use the phrase "hard working."
Yes; Biden's decency and humanity is an underused asset. Having him deliver teleprompter remarks is a poor use of his time . . .
The so-called Chats were carefully scripted; Roosevelt read them from his version of a teleprompter. He was a good reader, with a sense of rhythm and prosody, and he had the benefit of being invisible to his audience, so he could focus on the text before him and his delivery.
I like this. A lot. But I am old. I like to relax and listen. The voters we need to reach won't have the patience for this. They need to see 30 second powerful repeatable messages - things they can share and will become viral. I love Joe and I understand his speech impediments. Most do not. He should continue operate quietly and effectively in the back ground. JMO.
Right, I agree, but I, too, like this idea. Something new. Maybe instead of a Fireside chat, a mini chat with a different clever name... (maybe keep "chat" in the name) just a few minutes of airtime talking about what he's done for the American people and their families. Something different each week. One week what he's done for families, one week what he's done for the American economy, the infrastructure, education, healthcare, etc.
30 second chats— one key message every week.
I would go with it all for young and old. We need everyone. Perhaps his speech impediment could be catered to in a more personal seeming setting, or perhaps he could lead off with an acknowledgement Once (more) that it happens, so anyone pouncing on it is more apt to appear as the jerk they would be.
I participated in a teleconference w Biden speaking to donors after the infrastructure bill passed. He was awful. Tired, inarticulate, honestly embarrassing--it wasn't just his speech issues. And I'm a big fan of his! I do not think he can effectively carry out weekly fireside chats.
Hi, Jordan. That is good feedback for Biden's handlers at that event. I suspect fundraising is at the bottom of Joe's favorite activities. But getting him to speak to the American people about his empathy for their challenges is one of his strengths.
And include social media!!! Not just tv - pick up all platforms & ages & presentation formats!
Maybe use others instead of or in addition to Biden? Kind of like a round table chat of the Cabinet. Harris and Buttigieg are good speakers.
Wonderful idea, Kathy! Good to “see” you here as well.
You too, Ashley!
The "Fireside Chats" weren't weekly. They were mostly in response to particular events: the bank run, the Social Security Act, other specific topics. There were 30 in total, over a period of 11 years. I did start by calling it a "fantasy." That may be the most it can be.
Biden is much more comfortable speaking when he has someone conversing with him. His TV chats should always be "conversations"...not speeches....perhaps with people who have solid facts to support him...and to know how to intervene if he fumbles! If it sounds like he is lecturing, people will be turned off. How about Biden with Stacey Adams...or John Stewart...or Trevor Noah....or????
It doesn't have to be Biden (he's busy) it could be a revolving team of younger Dems. Monday with one Tuesday with another..., Repeat. Show the depth and diversity of the Dem's bench. Different focus by each one. Short, upbeat, very specific.
Not mutually exclusive.
Yes. True.
In my precinct a small group of us have started an initiative to contact registered voters, starting with Democrats and Independents and also "like minded Republicans". We are doing this by setting up a network of neighborhood leaders who will sponsor neighbor to neighbor civil discussions of issues. In 2020 the Democratic Election Committee in our county achieved a 93% participation of registered Democrats. Our effort focuses on insuring that all voters are able to vote despite Gov. DeSantis attempts to nullify or disqualify votes and by sponsoring civil discussions we hope to win over voters.
Hi, Charles. I second the comment below. Can we find a way to share your template? It sounds great. Send me an email at rhubbell@outlook.com. Let's talk.
I applaud your efforts here in FL. Would you please share a template of your group’s methods with each county in Florida. We desperately need that kind of organization and commitment all over the state!
David Estey
I recently saw columnist Molly Jong-Fast discussing her op-ed in The Atlantic (below) asserting that “Biden Needs an Enemy.” She and others feel that, while Biden and the Democrats are already accomplishing great things by governing responsibly for the people, it is sadly not enough to convince the American people and prevent his drop in the polls. I have long held that the only way Democrats can win over the public’s confidence is to govern effectively and get something done. I am very pleased and proud that they are already far along in working down a list of nearly three dozen actions I posted over a year ago as essential. I am also grateful that they have not been goaded by sensationalist media and opinion polls into adopting authoritarian tactics of ginning up false enemies and fearmongering.
Biden and the Democrats have relied so far on the common good sense of the American people to see who is really in their corner and seem to have sensed that, above all, the public wants some normalcy. The Republicans, on the other hand and as they have in the past, are betting on the ignorance and gullibility of the public to fall for the propaganda of unjustified fear and mistrust of one another, disinformation and chaos, and outright lies – just as Russia and China delight in promoting from without. There is plenty of evidence that Republican tactics are working. We shall see come the next election.
If the Democrats wanted to pick an enemy on which to focus their message, I would agree with Heather Cox Richardson to pick the rise of authoritarianism here and in other countries around the world. It is real and an existential threat to our democracy that must be reversed. Biden is already convening a global conference to address this distressing trend and shore up democracy everywhere. If Republicans want to side with the global brutality of authoritarians, let them sell that to the American people.
All that aside, I do think Jong-Fast and the others make a very valid point that Democrats cannot allow Republicans to seize the narrative of who has the country’s best interests at heart. I’m glad to see that Biden has not made Obama’s mistake of not touting significant administration successes along the way. In fact Biden has been very effective at holding frequent press briefings and convincingly articulating the importance of remarkable administration and legislative progress. Still, Biden and his surrogates have got to do even better at clearly and simply pointing out how all these accomplishments can make a difference in people’s day-to-day lives, in reduced drug costs, the price of insulin capped at $35 a month, safe roads and bridges, rural access to broadband, etc. and, unlike Trump’s tax cuts for the super-rich, all without really increasing the deficit. Democrats must not allow pompous Republicans to claim credit for these ultimate benefits when they voted almost unanimously against all of them. The administration must mount a relentless campaign to explain, promote and take credit for these wins to counter Republicans’ never-ending, unscrupulous fog of lies. It wouldn’t be propaganda because it would be based on truth. The news media also bears a great responsibility in our democracy to give the public the truth until it sinks in, instead of taking the easy, profitable route of chasing nonsensical and outrageous behavior of a Lauren Boebert or Marjorie Taylor Greene.
Perception is often more important than reality, but what Americans desperately need now is well-orchestrated perception based on undeniable reality they can see before their very eyes.
Hi, David. Thanks for sharing your thoughtful comments. I will check out the article you mention in The Atlantic. i particularly like the notion of "a well-orchestrated perception based on undeniable reality."
Engage a highly successful marketing group to design creative, fun, engaging, memorable ads that promote all the positive things the Biden administration is doing for key target groups. Determine the most popular TV shows for each target, then buy ad time and run the ads on the dates/times most effective for that group (top marketing firms will have that info). Expensive, but I’ll bet some Hollywood and tech billionaires would ante up to cover the costs.
Yes! It’s going to take serious money to counter the entrenched Murdoch/Koch mindset not to mention foreign disruptor campaigns. Where are the decent billionaires when this country that has enabled their success needs them?
Agreed! Where are the Democratic equivalents of the Koch Brothers?
Agree. The DCCC and the senate companion (not sure of their name, have the money to spend touting what is in the bill and also that Biden’s tax credit for families has cut child poverty in half and, more importantly put money in the pockets of hard working Americans. Evidently Rep Susan Wild said people in her district think this was Trump, not Biden (probably conflating his weird child tax credit). Should also be running on Fox and in less expensive news markets.