In politics, fear has long been used as a powerful tool to rally voters. It’s no secret that candidates, especially those running against incumbents, often resort to doom and gloom messaging, emphasizing threats and dangers to our democracy. But is this strategy effective? According to CNN’s Errol Louis, Democrats are excited fear because they know they can’t win on economic messaging alone.
While it may not be surprising that politicians focus on negative partisanship, where people cast their ballots against those they dislike rather than those they like, Louis argues that, ultimately, people vote for their pocketbooks. The economy’s state and financial well-being are more reliable indicators of how they will vote than fear-mongering tactics.
Louis acknowledges that there is some truth to the idea that everything might worsen if voters don’t support specific candidates. However, he believes that this prospect is too abstract for many people. On the day after the January 6th Capitol attack, people still had to attend to their daily needs, like buying gas and groceries. These tangible concerns are more immediate and relatable than the abstract notion of losing the country. Polling data consistently shows that the economy and people’s finances significantly impact voting decisions more than fear-based rhetoric.
Interestingly, despite the advice from those close to him, President Joe Biden has chosen to double down on the “threat to democracy” campaign message. Some sources suggest that Biden should focus more on the economy, abortion, and other hot-button issues rather than framing the race as a battle to save democracy. Recent polls indicate former President Donald Trump maintains a lead over Biden in crucial swing states like Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.
The question remains: will the Democrats’ emphasis on fear be enough to sway voters? Only time will tell. But as Louis suggests, when it comes down to it, people’s economic realities may have a more significant impact on their voting decisions than any attempts to stoke fear and anger.
