Erik Salmon
2W
Link: Here
2. This article argues that elections have been hurt in the past and will continue to be hurt as a result of negative, inaccurate ads that turn off voters. The author argues that Americans need to demand honesty in political campaigns as they experience in everyday life. Published on November 5th, 2014, this article was issued during the heat of Maine's elections. This editorial claims that "we are being saturated with political commercials filled with blatant lies, scandalous accusations and profoundly absurd claims" approved by the candidates.
3. The author effectively uses significant pieces of evidence to defend his claim. For example, he states that "there are 208 million eligible American voters. Less than 75 percent of us register to vote. Only 45 percent actually cast a ballot, which means a small portion of eligible votes often chooses our elected officials." This fact is actually pretty amazing when one understands that over half of America does not vote on our future leaders. Instead of paying attention to the political campaigns, many of us will "fast forward through the commercials or watch HBO or Netflix."
4. I couldn't agree more with this editorial. I have definitely noticed an increase in negative ads over the past couple of years, especially Maine's most recent election. I won't forget the commercial about Angus King. "Angus King is the King of Spending and the King of Mismanagement." I cannot deny nor confirm this accusation, but it most definitely paints the picture that the author is trying to convey. Inaccurate ads can mislead voters and ultimately change their opinions for worse. Advertisement needs to tell the truth, not promote propaganda.
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