As the presidential election closes in on its final days, I want to look to the media for answers. I want to know who’s really in the lead. I want to know who won the debates. I want to know the facts – the accurate, clean-cut, straight-up facts. Can I get a straight answer out of anyone?!
It seems as though the media carelessly reveals different poll statistics and results every day. I don’t know what to trust.
As millions of Americans place their votes and state their opinions all over the world, I’m sure it’s extremely difficult to predict and measure how everyone will hand in their ballet on Nov. 4, so what’s the value in releasing frequently mismatched results – other than creating an unnecessary fuss and destructive spin, of course.
I felt the same way in February, when Sens. Barack Obama and Hilary Clinton battled for the Democratic ticket – uncertain and mislead. Until the final results came in, I took every poll, debate, and media panel conversation with a grain of salt. I had to.
For better or for worse, many Americans look to media outlets for news and facts. However, listening to inconsistent, deceptive poll results affect public opinion and lead many to believe the status of the presidential election sways one way or the other.
Bottom line – the media should not be allowed to carelessly report every new statistic or poll result that crosses their editor’s desk. It’s a deceptive tactic used just to sell papers.
Anybody with me?!