Much of political campaigning is public relations – the candidates’ image, word choice and taglines are created and critiqued by PR professionals. While the general presidential election is still more than a year away, this week’s wrap covers the political PR moves that are already making news.
Ted Cruz turns ‘Simpsons’ jobseeker; he’ll take any part
Conservative firebrand Ted Cruz sought to soften his image by “auditioning” for The Simpsons after one of the show’s longtime voices announced his retirement. Cruz may have shown some ability in replicating voices from the show, but he received a stern denial from the executive producer.
US TV network NBC fires Donald Trump over Mexico comments
After business mogul and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump made inflammatory remarks about Mexican immigrants to the United States, NBC Universal announced its partnership with the outspoken millionaire is over. Trump has attempted to portray himself as strong and honest – but some feel his rhetoric has been insensitive and unnecessary.
What’s in a Name? Bad PR for Politicians
Multiple presidential candidates have chosen to market themselves on a first-name basis in an attempt to distance their own image from those of other politically prominent family members. Whether a first-name campaign softens the impact of being a Clinton, Bush or Paul could determine the next president.
Have any thoughts about the public relations of presidential politics in the year ahead? Share your thoughts below.
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Seamus Roddy is a summer intern at WordWrite. He can be found on Twitter @SeamusRoddy
