Context is key when perceiving political ad campaigns.

 Maxwell Abbatiello

ma281019@ohio.edu

From Medium

In the digital age where misinformation spreads like wildfire, it is unwise to cut corners when considering the credibility of information on the internet, especially regarding politics. Platforms have been accused of using advertising to influence elections, especially Facebook. Finding the right way to navigate through political ad campaigns can be difficult. Context is crucial when going about perceiving these campaigns.

Candidates will use anything they can to damage the image of their opposition. During the election process, candidates will attack ads that aim to attack the other candidate's reputation. The first occurrence of an attack ad took place during the 1964 presidential election between President Lyndon B. Johnson and Senator Barry Goldwater. President Johnson ran an ad titled "Peace, Little Girl," which essentially conveyed that there would be a nuclear war. 

It is no longer the 60s, and there have been developments in how candidates campaign. A significant shift occurred during this past election between Trump and Biden. Trump utilized social media, particularly Twitter, to pick and poke at the Biden administration. For example, a clip of Biden was taken out of context that made it sound like he was admitting to voter fraud: "We have put together I think the most extensive and inclusive voter fraud organization in the history of American politics." This quote was tweeted by Fox News reporter Kayleigh McEnany and was quickly blown out of proportion. Biden was trying to say that he has put together a team to fight the potential legal action Trump was threatening to take due to his allegations of voter fraud.

When viewing a political ad, it is essential to ask yourself questions: What message is this trying to convey? What is the context of this ad? Being media literate is more important than ever. Remembering what biases news organizations have is crucial when answering these questions. Fox News is more conservative, while CNN leans left. Also, not falling victim to confirmation bias is essential. Keep an open mind and only believe what is factual. Also, remember to always be on the lookout for fake news and misinformation. Kamala Harris faced controversy after a claim went viral that she slept her way to the Vice President. This story isn't true, but many believe it. Context is important when deciphering these messages.