In Focus: Clinton vs. Obama – It’s Getting Dirty
Mud wrestling gets ratings, writes Sheryl Longin, but does it win elections?
With the inconclusive results of Super Tuesday 2, unpredictable superdelegates in Ohio, and Michigan and Florida threatening do-overs, there’s no light on the horizon for average guy Tom Hanks and the legions of Americans who share his pain.
But when a famous actor speaks, the two Democratic contenders sit up and take notice. Okay, that’s putting the best spin possible on both campaigns’ decisions, just one day after hinting at a possible joint ticket, to spice up the election by going nasty.
While it does have the Karl Rove anticipated effect of pushing the Republican nominee off the radar, it’s a short term fix for a long term problem. Not to mention, how low can they go and still make Diane Sawyer’s dream
come true?
CNN’s helpful attempt to clarify the situation by asking viewers whether Obama should go negative only further illustrates the Democrats’ dilemma. Predictably, responses are split down the middle. Perhaps the broadcast news networks should change their graphics to “Indecision ‘08″.
Who’s the biggest loser in all this chaos? My vote goes to DNC chair Howard Dean who seems to be ducking Florida Sen. Bill Nelson’s angry calls.
I only hope, in his frustration, he doesn’t let loose with another of his signature yelps.
Somewhere in Brentwood, Tom Hanks is reaching for an Extra-Strength Tylenol. America is reaching with him.
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2 Comments
1. Hotpatch 6:Poor Obama! He has not yet experienced the full wrath of the Clinton machine. But when he does, the “politics of personal destruction” will take on a whole new meaning for the young rockstar.
If he wasn’t a Democrat, I might feel sorry for him.
Mar 7, 2008 - 2:37 pm 2. Nicky:“Why choose if you can combine?”
This is the title of a LDV United (an advertising agency in Antwerp, Belgium) campaign for the HUB (the first ever university and college in one)
Mar 10, 2008 - 3:55 ambecause it is an university and college in one, people no longer have to make a decision between university or college.
to emphasise this idea, LDV United combined the faces of Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton in one picture.
this “Why choose if you can combine?”-campaign is really funny and well worked out. See for yourself: http://www.advertisinghangar.be/ , it is worthwile, believe me.