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The death of retail politics

Article Abstract:

Television has taken over the election campaign completely in the United States. The days of door-to-door campaigning where the candidate could mingle and interact with the voters are over. Television footage showing the campaign trail of the candidates is mostly stage managed since there are more media people than the real voters in the crowd. This is evident from the New Hampshire campaign of the Tennessee governor Alexander Lamar. It is unfortunate that the media is so complicit in creating the appearance of retail politicking.

Analysis, Politics, Media coverage, Television and politics, Campaign management

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A Democratic stronghold

Article Abstract:

The Democratic Party in California is very proud of its victory over the Republicans in the Nov 1998 elections. They won the governorship and are in control of both houses of the Legislature and the state senate. The Democrats' victory is important not only for their future roles in the state but also because their numbers, with 54 seats, constitutes 20% of the votes needed to win the presidency. In addition, their win will enable them to reframe the state's legislative districts.

Column, Elections, California, Democratic Party (California), Republican Party (California)

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Power-sharing: a Senate litmus test

Article Abstract:

The composition of committees of the US Senate is discussed, following the close election in 2000. The Democrats want to share power with the Republicans, as they have nearly as many seats as the Republicans.

Powers and duties, Republican Party (United States), United States. Congress. Senate, Legislative bodies, Legislative committees

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