More campaign illogic…
The fundraising figures say Sen. John Edwards leads the White House contenders. But a poll in New Hampshire suggests he doesn’t exist. So what should a voter believe?
This situation points up for me how important it is for the press to focus on policy now–before the heat of the primary season begins. At this point, neither the polls nor the fundraising figures mean much of anything. Yet these will be reported as if they have great significance, thus leading to the rather illogical and confusing picture we have this morning: Edwards ahead in money but nowhere in sight in a poll of perhaps the most important primary state.
Further, I do not think voters can make informed decisions about candidates based on dollars or poll results at this early stage. But, then, such articles are easy to report and easy to write. Plus, these articles give the race the illusion of drama.
I am not claiming the press should not report on fundraising and polls. I think the press should put these legitimate news items into proper perspective. For example, why does a single poll, taken months before the vote, deserve a single article? (via PoliticalWire)
