The only plus for Phil Angelides is that many people will tire of the Arnold-hype, and vote for one of the underdog candidates; that is the inclusion of votes for third-party-candidates only drawing-off votes from Schwarzenegger. The latest polls indicate that the race has narrowed to nine-points.
The two main choices on the ballot are (as usual) seen as a ‘lesser of two evils’ or as is also said ‘an evil of two lessers’. Hence, it’s not such a faux-pas to choose a third-party candidate; on account of voter interest for third-party candidates being in line with a small, yet emerging social zeitgeist e.g., the ‘Green-Party’ candidate, and to a much lesser extent the ‘Libertarian’ candidate are examples. Even “write-in candidates” indicate a “none-of-the-above sentiment.”
Many are disappointed with Mr. Angelides; as he can gain by speaking on the morning talk-shows e.g., studies show that people are most receptive to new ideas (candidates) during the morning hours. He left a good impression on interviews on the progressive Ed Schultz Show; as one of Phil Angelides’ strengths conveys a “quiet confidence” which ironically works best in ‘non-partisan-like’ frames.
Phil Angelides can also benefit with talking-points that would resonate with an ample majority of voters e.g., Angelides can quickly convey his agendas (without the wordy descriptions) on assisting the middle class with the quote ‘financial relief.’ Or on immigration ‘amnesty when verified.’
If Mr. Angelides cannot reach Schwarzenegger’s voter popularity, then the Governor’s election reaches a tipping-point; it becomes more difficult to raise the percentage of Angelides voters to around fifty percent, and easier to enhance the percentage of voters considering third-party candidates; who will indirectly sway the election to Angelides.
The California Governor’s election will be a textbook-example of “media-tainment” Yet, an ample majority of California voters are more likely swayed through news without the “media-tainment”, Internet campaigns, and grassroots efforts (largely through old-fashioned word-of-mouth) combined, than are swayed by celebrity appeal alone; especially an appeal orientated around knee-jerk reactions.
Can “grassroots-efforts” also counter the ‘self fulfilling prophecy effect’ which too often becomes like a ‘self-defeatist prophecy?’
Quotes: 100,000 signs, bumper-stickers anybody??
* “Tired of the ‘Arnold hype’ elephant? Vote for one of the underdogs!”
* On “grassroots efforts” – “Word of mouth is what’s worth repeating again and again for the first time!”