Modern Political Campaigns in the U.S.

Key Focus

• Explain how campaign organizations and strategies affect the election process.

Historical Context

• Early U.S. Campaigns
  • Minimal self-promotion; George Washington's era valued silence over self-promotion.
  • Shift from subtlety to overt promotion in modern times.

Political Fundraising

• Spending Increase Over Time
  • 1996 (Clinton vs. Dole): $87 million
  • 2004 (Bush vs. Kerry): $513 million
  • 2020 (Trump vs. Biden): $14.4 billion
  • Conclusion: Significant rise in election spending.

Factors Influencing Campaign Costs

1. Election Cycle Length

   • U.S. has no laws limiting campaign duration, unlike many other countries.
   • States compete for early primaries, extending campaign season.
   • Example: Biden deemed 384 days pre-election too late to start campaigning in 2015.

2. Complexity of Modern Campaigns

   • Professional Consultants
     • Campaign manager, public relations, fundraising, social media consultants hired.
     • Focus: Messaging clarity, opponent definition, debate performance.
   • Canvassing
     • Use of paid/volunteer positions for voter engagement and fundraising.

3. Reliance on Social Media

   • Platforms like Facebook assist in targeted ad placement.
   • Historical Examples:
     • FDR: Radio
     • JFK: Television
     • Obama (2012): Social media for targeted messaging, increasing donations.

Advertising as a Major Expense

• Major portion of campaign funds directed towards advertising: billboards, social media, TV ads.
• Effectiveness: Despite absurdity, negative ads are impactful.

Conclusion

• Modern campaigns are increasingly complex and costly.
• Unlikely to see a reduction in complexity or expense soon.

Additional Resources

• View packet available for exam preparation.
• Encouragement to subscribe for continued content.