Presidential Debate and the Media

                As with all politics the media steers the public towards specific issues of interest or away from controversial or antagonising topics. This can be seen in the first presidential debate. The reporter and supposed mediator, Jim Lehrer, led the candidates through their various topics of discussion. He failed however to push any difficult points showing the close ties of the media to the government. There is no journalism involved; the candidates are able to talk about what they chose to talk about. Difficult questions are not posed. Very little information is gained and largely the candidates have no real challenges to deal with.

                The difference in the candidate’s composure appears to be main focus of the media. The audience is made greatly aware of appearance. Romney appeared more comfortable, created momentum and interest in campaign. Possibly the media’s previous portrayal of Romney as an underdog has created a greater impact now that he has delivered a more exuberant performance than that of the lack lustre performance of Obama. The almost new Romney is different from what we have previously seen and so he catches the audience’s attention. He is well prepared and begins to step into a slightly more relatable character to the audience. Romney stares down Obama he appears confident and provided compelling arguments. This is highlighted by the media’s focus on the performance rather than the content of these debates.

                Obama on the other hand disappoints expectations. He appears tired and his body image is rather defeated, his head hangs down and there is no aggression in his attacks. This is not what a lot of the audience expects; they remember previous performances of Obama where he is passionate and enthusiastic. His arguments in this debate are very thin with no persuasion to encourage support. The media’s elevation of Obama preceding the debate has possible caused him great damage now that he has participated in the first debate. The media tailors the candidate’s image to what the audience is required to understand and interpret.