THE MEDIA AND POLITICAL COMMUNICATION

Definition
Political communication is an activity consisting in using the
media and developing strategies in order to influence a specific
audience to achieve political goals.

Major types of media in US politics

Broadcast media
Print media
Internet

Regulation of media
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is in charge of
the regulation. It applies only to broadcast media.

Power of media in US politics

Media are powerful because their disclosures can have a positive
or a negative impact on the career of politicians or on the future of
political parties

Major sources of media power

Agenda setting (initiate political debate)
Framing (impact on public opinion)
Priming (impact on public reaction)

 Media shape public opinion and form political culture

They can help strengthen the legitimacy of politicians or totally
defeat/destroy their Carrere.