The document discusses how politics has become more like entertainment, focusing on conflict, drama, and performance to attract viewers. It notes the rise of infotainment media sources and decline of traditional media. Politicians must compete for attention and use confrontation, emotion and partisan rhetoric. However, there are some signs of hope like record voter turnouts among young people and increased civic engagement through new media.

1. That’s Entertainment: Politics as Theater in Campaign ‘08 Jon Perr February 5, 2008

2. A Wildly Unpopular President 2

3. A Clear Democratic Advantage? Sources: 1. Gallup 1/13/08; 2. CBS 1/12/08; 3. Rasmussen 1/20/08; 4. Rasmussen 1/4/08; 5. Rasmussen 11/23/07 3

4. Remember: This Man Was Elected…Twice 4

9. Shifting Political News Sources Source: Pew Research Center, 1/11/08 9

11. Two - and Only Two - Sides 11

12. Good vs. Evil Dramas “ Wanted Dead or Alive” “ Bring ‘Em On” John Kerry “Swift Boated” 12 Year Old S-CHIP “Fraud?” 12

14. The TMZing of Politics Hillary’s Cleavage Obama Girl John Edwards’ Hair Hillary’s Laugh 14

15. Politics as a Performance 15

16. No War on Christmas Here 16

17. What Voters Are Worried About… Source: Wall Street Journal/NBC News Poll, 1/22/08 17