If you’ve opened any website, app, or article in the past few months, you’ve likely been bombarded with political, accusatory, and targeted advertisements.
The media is meant to inform the public; more specifically, the voter, about political events, debates, policies, news, and opinions. It’s crucial that this information is being relayed to all, voters and non-voters alike. “The media does play a vital role in our democracy, and if we cannot depend on journalistic ethics, the nation’s in trouble,” said Dave Brat, sharing just how important it is that we are able to share and express ourselves, thanks to the First Amendment.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that what you see and feel to be true may not always be factual and honest. In recent years, misinformation has become a major issue, leading to the spread of a buffet of negative outcomes. One of the outcomes is the pressure it places on reporters and journalists. In an article by the Brennan Carter organization, we learn, “with 64 percent reporting in 2022 that the spread of false information has made their jobs more dangerous. It interferes with voters’ ability to understand and participate in political processes. And it has been weaponized by lawmakers to justify new voter suppression legislation.”
With such immense power, the media holds a large stake in all elections, big or small. Ads often use that power to shine a light on a candidate’s achievements, or undermine a candidate. These ads can range from being harmless and informational, to graphic and border-line offensive.
Audio from a recent campaign event revealed Montana senate candidate Tim Sheehy making several comments referring to Native Americans as the stereotype of “Drunk Indians” which caused many issues with local tribes. Incumbent candidate Jon Tester has faced controversy for being too personal in his ads.
At a higher level, presidential advertisements have always been aggressive and plentiful. Going forward, voters and citizens alike want to see more information, less drama and political attacks.
