Odds are, this election, since it is so close, may not be decided by policy, but by personal popularity. Many elections are, especially in the United States. Within his country, Bush’s image compares very favorably to Kerry’s. Even in the debates where Kerry won, Americans simply found Bush to be more likeable.

It’s an image ‘Dubya’ has carefully constructed. Don’t be confused by his painfully unprofessional vocabulary. It’s a ploy. By mangling words and stuttering once in awhile, he steadily reinforces his image as personable and folksy. He is a man who doesn’t talk above the common man and woman, but a man who talks with common Americans.

On the other hand, the more professional Kerry is more boring. He comes off as proper, stale, and out of touch with ordinary Americans. The lan- guage and tone he uses suggests he is speaking to Americans, not talking with them. The aristocratic heritage in Kerry shows up, and it is damaging to his image.

Another thing working against Kerry is his status as a liberal, a dirty word in American politics, long associated with left-wing radicalism and com- munism. This tainted term may not effect young voters, but the majority of voters remember the Cold War, an era where the words ‘left’ and ‘liberal’ instantly aroused deep suspicion. The scars of the Cold War still linger in today’s American political culture.

Also, Americans think differently now in the post 9/11 world. They feel threatened and want a strong brave leader to lead the country through the tough times. Once again, Bush has constructed an image of a brave cow- boy committed to defending America. He represents patriotism in a very patriotic country, a man who is proud of America. Once again, many Americans want a patriotic leader.

Additionally, the debate questions about faith and family re-enforced a

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Bush advantage. Middle America likes to view itself as having strong fam- ily and religious ties. Many voters want their president to represent these traditional American moral values. A commitment to family and religion are paramount values. After the Clinton embarrassment, many Americans want to reinforce these values, qualities Bush repeatedly showcases to Americans. Rudy Giuliani was wrong when he said these questions won Bush the debate because they did not; however, they might win him the election. In a tight election race in the strange world of American politics, Bush’s patriotic image as the protector of America and a traditional fami- ly man could tip the scales in his favor and give the world, ‘Four More Years’ of President George W. Bush.

~ Citizen Hearings, 2004: Food issues Hope For the Future of Food Production in PEI?

Come out and express your concerns about Farming and fishing to a three-person citizen's commission: Anne Bishop, Chair

Organic supper at the Hearings: Tickets $5.00 when purchased in advance Assistance with travel and child/elder care costs available on request

Prince County

Where? O'Leary Community Centre When? Monday, October 25, 2-9 pm (Follow Up Session: Monday, November 15, 7-9 pm)

Queen's County

Where? North Milton Community Hall When? Tuesday, October 26, 2-9 pm (Follow-up session: Tuesday, November 16, 7-9 pm)

Kings County

Where? Whim Inn, Pooles Corner When? Thursday, October 28, 2-9 pm (Follow-up session: Thursday, November 18, 7-9 pm)

Sponsors: Cooper Institute & Latin American Mission Program To register please call the Cooper Institute 894-4573

Partially funded by the George Cedric Metcalf Charitable Foundation Clip and save. Bring this ad to the Hearings for a wonderful door prize draw!

UPEI Cadre October 19, 2004 page 5