One of the more prominent communication technologies used in the 2008 elections would have to be television. Obviously, during election time and the months leading up to it, almost every single channel was bringing you up to date coverage on the progress of both parties. While most news outlets claim to be bipartisan, certain networks (*cough*FOXNEWS*cough*) swing to one particular side of the party line. But it's important to remember that there are FAIR coverage channels, and you just have to weed through the vast array of networks in order to find them.
Television is perhaps the most convenient medium to use because it is available and accessible to almost everyone. According to Wikipedia, 99% of households own at least one television. This would be the outlet to take full advantage of in an election. And with all the other media outlets around, according to Thelivingroomcandidate.org, "the television commercial remains the one area where presidential candidates have complete control over their images." This website provides an extensive list of the most effective ads designed by both sides during the election. Browse them here.
Commercials were not the only thing on television visible during the elections. Saturday Night Live has been parodying Presidents for years, and their portrayal of he candidates and their running mates certainly impacted popular culture. The appearance of Obama, McCain, and Palin on this popular tv show undoubtedly influenced a whole new generation and perhaps an audience that they might not have reached otherwise. Watch the infamouse Sarah Palin/Hilary Cliton clip below.
While the practice of using television to promote a candidate is certainly not new (as evidenced by the quote at the end of this entry), over the years it has been expanded and improved upon to the point that we know of today.
"Television is no gimmick, and nobody will ever be elected to major office again without presenting themselves well on it."
-Television producer and Nixon campaign consultant Roger Ailes, 1968
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