We’re nearing the final month of the presidential campaign, so this is a good time to look back in reflection over the epic battle between Bush and Kerry.
What we find is a campaign that has not been up to epic proportions. Instead, the presidential campaign has focused almost solely on image.
The War in Iraq is ongoing. The economy is an ever-present issue. The environment has been sloughed to the wayside. Even the hot topics of abortion and same-sex marriage are second to the huge pictures of Bush or Kerry smiling and waving at flag-waving people.
The presidential candidates themselves rarely talk about the issues. Instead, they find every opportunity to cast a negative light to their opponent’s image.
The most popular debate in the presidential campaign has been about the nature of each candidate’s military service. Kerry has touted his Vietnam War service, trying to make up for his years of war protest. The main story in news of late has been the questionable documents of Bush’s possible suspension from flight.
While one may argue that such an assessment of the candidates’ military service could determine if they can be the commander-in-chief of a nation in war, the whole debate comes back to image. Who looks better in a military uniform?
Recently, in response to Bush’s attacks on his image, Kerry has been taking up the venue of popular culture and mainstream entertainment, such as appearances on talk shows and an interview in Rolling Stone. He hopes his image will appeal to younger voters.
Voters must remember that, when they go to the polls in November, they are not voting for their favorite actor in the People’s Choice Awards. They are voting for the leader of country, who will make decisions for all of us, for good or for ill. Vote for the person who is going to represent your interest and will make the best decisions. Don’t just look for the prettiest picture.
The Reflector editorial board is made up of opinion editor Angela Adair, news editor Elizabeth Crisp, assistant news editor Jessica Bowers, sports editor Craig Peters, entertainment editor Dustin Barnes, managing editor Pam McTeer and editor in chief Josh Foreman.