Yes, Virginia, there are real villains in politics. In our book The Elements of Persuasion we stress not demonizing an antagonist. In the real world, as opposed to Hollywood, you should be careful using the V word. But there are times it fits. We are reaching one of those times.
I’m not talking about nasty attack ads. Those are often in the eye of the beholder. Your hero is my antagonist. Your scandalous lie is my biting social commentary. It’s an American tradition that goes back at least to the mercurial friendship and bitter hurt feelings of Jefferson and Adams. A little mud slinging keeps our democracy down to earth, and hurray for us for doing it. Americans are a scrappy bunch. That is one reason we’re such lovable galoots. But the desire to win can go too far.
If there is one thing all Americans should agree on it is that every citizen has a right the right, if not the duty, to vote. That is not a technical right granted by a benevolent State, it is an Inalienable Right made tangible by the sacrifices of our Founding Fathers and “watered by the blood of patriots” in every generation since. So organized voter suppression is truly villainous.
And what could be more villainous than a banker foreclosing on little Nell’s mortgage then twirling his metaphoric mustache as he has the sheriff tear up her ballot because she doesn’t live there anymore. According to the website The Michigan Messenger someone connected with Repubs is trying to do just this in battleground state of Michigan. The Messenger's post must have touched some nerve because a slander suit has been filed. TPM fact-checked to find out who was paying the attorney fees and got shined on by the shyster involved which is not a good sign.
If this is actually happening, shame on whichever party allows it.
Of course there are more sophisticated technical ways of denying – or enhancing - the vote (and both parties seem to do it). Check out HBO's Hacking Democracy - availabe on disk - a truly scary documentary. Perfect for your pre election Halloween Party.
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