As voters in California make their way to the polls, Syracuse University's Amos Kiewe, director and associate dean of the department of communication and rhetorical studies, assesses the recent communications tactics revolving around the California recall race as "disturbing."
"Arnold Schwarzenegger refused to debate more than once," says Kiewe, "which illustrates his low-risk approach to the election. He said very little about his plans, and what he did say came late so that voters did not have enough time to digest his viewpoints."
"His policy statements coincided with the revelation that he allegedly groped women. It is disturbing, in such a crucial election, that policy points were overshadowed by shock-value news. Sadly, that is the state of politics these days - it often competes with other media entertainment news."
Kiewe criticizes the process for not focusing on the main aspects of and reasons for the election. "Governor Davis also did not offer any new initiatives," says Kiewe. "He spoke very little about his plans for improving the economy, which should be the main concern of any Californian, especially those running for office. I don't think Americans really understand what a Pandora's Box of problems potentially has been opened with this recall election."
To arrange an interview or for more information, please contact Amy Mehringer, News Manager, Syracuse University, (315) 443-3784 or aemehrin@syr.edu
