It seems in recent political campaigns, a pattern has emerged. A favorite candidate is anointed by the media. There are wonderful articles and pictures of the smiling candidate, usually with family or spouse. Stories are written about how this person has overcome odds to be at or near the top of the heap. Michele Bachmann is the newest anointed one.
Assuming the pattern follows, the media will take great delight in tearing the individual down to near if not total destruction. Watch how Bachmann will go from the darling of Iowa to evil incarnate. Today it came out that her former Lutheran congregation teaches that the Pope is the anti-Christ. It is starting. We'll see more positive articles on her, then almost all articles will turn negative. Maybe this is a natural consequence as more and more is known about a candidate, but it is hard to think that it is anything other than continuing media manipulation. The process repeats itself again and again. Republicans and Democrats are both subject to the build 'em up then tear 'em down syndrome. Obviously, at times, it is much deserved (see Newt Gingrich, John Edwards, etc.).
It will be interesting to watch the pattern repeat itself. Media moguls are frothing at the mouth to see Gov. Perry of Texas jump into the presidential race. If he does, the media roller coaster will push him to the top, then down he goes. They can't resist, and it does sell. When the individual in question makes the cover of People Magazine, you know the path is heading downward. Strong candidates will survive the ride, but many who would serve the country well are driven away by the scrutiny.
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