Political Participation
What changed, if anything, in the American political culture between 2004 and 2008? Further, please feel free to examine changes to 2012, and how they might influence this year's November presidential and congressional elections.
To understand the changes in American political culture between 2004 and 2008, as well as subsequent years, we can begin by analyzing the available data and key events during those periods. Additionally, we can examine the potential influence of these changes on the upcoming November presidential and congressional elections.
To begin, we can look at the voter turnout and political engagement during these periods. The voter turnout in the 2004 presidential election was approximately 60% of eligible voters, while in 2008 it increased to around 63%. This increase suggests a growing interest and participation in the political process by the general public. Factors that may have contributed to this rise include the historic nature of the 2008 election with Barack Obama being the first African-American presidential nominee from a major party, as well as increased efforts in mobilizing and registering voters.
In terms of political culture, there were significant events and shifts in public opinion during this period. Following the 2004 election, the U.S. was engaged in the Iraq War, which became a significant factor in shaping public sentiment. As the war continued, opposition to the conflict grew among many Americans, leading to increased protests and anti-war sentiment.
Furthermore, there was a significant rise in online political engagement and use of social media platforms during this period. The 2008 election saw the emergence of Barack Obama's successful utilization of social media, including platforms like Facebook and Twitter, to mobilize and connect with supporters. This approach revolutionized political campaigns and heralded a new era of technology-driven political participation.
Moving forward to the 2012 election, there was a notable shift in campaign finance due to the landmark Supreme Court decision in Citizens United v. FEC. This ruling allowed for increased campaign spending by corporations and unions, leading to the emergence of Super PACs and a dramatic upswing in campaign fundraising.
This shift in campaign finance influenced subsequent elections, including the current 2020 presidential and congressional elections. Candidates, particularly in primary races, have relied on large donations and the support of wealthy donors. This concentration of resources potentially affects the political landscape, as candidates with access to significant funds have more opportunities for exposure and influence in campaigns.
Additionally, with the advent of technology and the rise of social media, political participation has further expanded. Online platforms have become important tools for political campaigns, fundraising, and communication with supporters. Candidates and their campaigns utilize social media to engage with voters, share policy proposals, and shape public opinion.
Considering the 2020 elections, the COVID-19 pandemic has introduced new challenges and opportunities for political participation. Traditional campaign rallies and door-to-door canvassing have been limited due to social distancing measures, leading to increased reliance on virtual town halls, online campaigning, and televised debates.
In conclusion, between 2004 and 2008, there was an increase in voter turnout, growing opposition to the Iraq War, and the rise of online political engagement. Subsequent years saw shifts in campaign finance laws, the emergence of social media as a political tool, and the unique circumstances of the 2020 elections due to the COVID-19 pandemic. These changes in political culture have the potential to influence the November 2020 presidential and congressional elections, shaping the way campaigns are conducted, candidates engage with voters, and citizens participate in the political process.