Political Campaigning (Tuesday, January 17, 4th Period)

[professor-lyman.livejournal.com]

Josh was snickering at what passed for political coverage in the local Montana papers when his political campaigning class came in.

"Hey guys," he said. "First of all, congratulations to those of you who are now duly elected members of the Student Council." He might be smirking just a little bit as he looked at Angel. "I look forward to napping through all of your meetings as your advisor." He cleared his throat. "Anyway. Today we're talking about how to write a campaign outline." He pointed to his inbox. "Please turn in your preliminary research about your candidates here. And, um," he pointed at random to his class list, then read off the name, "Alanna, how many days do we have until the election?"

He looked around the room. "Okay. Last class I rattled off a whole list of factors that have to be remembered in a campaign. And written down because if it's not on paper it doesn't exist. We've already discussed a bit about the political environment, both nationally and in Montana. Now that you've done a bit more research about your candidates, it's time for you to start coming up with answers to some critical decisions. Break into your groups, and given what you've learned about your guys, please answer me the following questions." He pointed to the board where he'd scrawled:

1. Will you debate your opponent? If you have a primary, will you debate your primary opponent?
2. Will you appear with other members of your party? Montana officials only, or national-level party members as well? Are there certain members in particular you would not invite to help you?
3. How will your candidate address gun-control issues, abortion, prayer in school, the war in Iraq and general thoughts on making Montana safe from terrorism?

Josh sat back down at his desk. "If you have questions, ask. If not, talk amongst yourselves."

Comments

Re: Group discussion: Angel, Rory, Alanna

[threeweapons.livejournal.com]

Alanna took out a notebook, and began the never ending battle to take legible notes. "So, will our guy debate?"

Re: Group discussion: Angel, Rory, Alanna

[notstakedyet.livejournal.com]

"He's ahead, he doesn't have to," Angel murmured. He then looked like he regretted having spoken.

Re: Group discussion: Angel, Rory, Alanna

[threeweapons.livejournal.com]

Alanna shrugged. "But he may loose that advantage if he doesn't make a public appearance and defend himself."

Re: Group discussion: Angel, Rory, Alanna

[auroryborealis.livejournal.com]

Rory nodded. "He doesn't have to, but doesn't he have the option?"

Re: Group discussion: Angel, Rory, Alanna

[threeweapons.livejournal.com]

Alanna nodded. "I'm really heavey on the yes side here. I think keeping him in the public eye as much as possible is a very good thing. And he seems articulate enough not to make a fool of himself."

Re: Group discussion: Angel, Rory, Alanna

[notstakedyet.livejournal.com]

Angel didn't look up from his notebook. "I'm not saying he won't, I'm saying he doesn't have to. He's in the lead. Let the other guy come begging for a debate if he wants one."