Countless observers have noted that Democratic messaging is ineffective. They identify many different deficiencies in Democratic messaging, but three stand out. First, they point out that Democrats lack a messaging infrastructure like the Republicans have. Democrats do not have a Fox Network or network of hundreds of radio stations to echo their talking points like Republicans. Second, observers note that Democrats tend to believe they can count on the media to relate their message. But the media do not generally do not view its job as that of supporting Democrats. The media believes it has to drag both sides over hot coals, even when one side does not deserve it. Third, a few observers say that the Democrats’ most significant problem is that they lack a message that has an overriding theme. As a result, Democrats try to dress up the benefits of a particular policy as their message. But the benefits of legislation can not be what the party stands for. At least, Democrats’ messaging should refute Republican messaging.
Republicans say their party stands for lower taxes, smaller government, and pro-family (anti-abortion) values. Their messaging about what they stand for includes a comparison about Democrats: Democrats are bad because they are socialists and will raise your taxes. “Democrats are soft on crime, weak on foreign policy, will let government bureaucrats provide abortions to your daughter and ruin your health care.” Republicans define themselves partly in opposition to Democrats.
In effect, Democrats do not tell a story that connects facts about them and Republicans. Without a story, facts are passive and disconnected from each other. Voters’ understanding of those facts is limited, and their belief in them is undermined. Democrats need to do a much better job of saying what they are about in a story. Of course, the first step Democrats must take is to decide on their story.
Republicans say their party stands for lower taxes, smaller government, and pro-family (anti-abortion) values. Their messaging about what they stand for includes a comparison about Democrats: Democrats are bad because they are socialists and will raise your taxes. “Democrats are soft on crime, weak on foreign policy, will let government bureaucrats provide abortions to your daughter and ruin your health care.” Republicans define themselves partly in opposition to Democrats.
In effect, Democrats do not tell a story that connects facts about them and Republicans. Without a story, facts are passive and disconnected from each other. Voters’ understanding of those facts is limited, and their belief in them is undermined. Democrats need to do a much better job of saying what they are about in a story. Of course, the first step Democrats must take is to decide on their story.