How have Americans allowed media to change politics?

1. How have Americans allowed media to change politics?

2. Unit Questions • How are political elections different today than they were 50 years ago? • What technology led to the change in politics? • How has media allowed citizens to be more involved in the political process? • Have these changes had a positive or negative effect on the political process?

3. Overview • 1948 elections vs. 2010 elections • Types of technology that affects elections • Citizens involvement in elections • Effects of media on elections

4. 1948 Elections vs. 2010 Elections • support was gained through public appearances • candidates relied on word of mouth • campaign cost stayed low • Support is based on voters morals • Support is given to political parties • Support is gained through media information • Support is based on media popularity • TV commercials tear down other candidates • campaign cost is much higher First political Commercial

5. Types of Media • Social Networks • Facebook • Twitter • Personal Blogs • Television • Internet • Smart phones • Newspapers/Magazines

6. Citizens Involvement • Social network postings • Voice of the people • Media gimmicks

7. Effect of media • Candidates must be media friendly • Candidates are seen as celebrities • Voters do not research candidate information • Social networks make elections popularity contest • Politician’s lives are on public display • Votes may vary due to early predictions

8. Summary • Public gains information quickly • Social networks pull in young voters • Candidate's media image is important • Voters rely on news information • TV commercials raise campaign cost