Negative ads vs. political discourse

In the arena of politics, there are many who aspire to a purer political discourse and a debate over ideas instead of rank political attacks founded in negativity.  I include myself among them.  The problem with that is this - such a political environment is not possible.  At least it is not possible on an ongoing and continuous basis.  At best we can hope for temporary periods of political discourse.  If two politicians are engaged in a political race, if one falls behind in polling, you can bet negative ads will come out and they will trigger retaliation from the front runner in turn.

 

Nevertheless, a healthier political discourse would certainly benefit society greatly. The idea has many proponents.  Sadly, I think they are misguided.  I respect the opinions of Allan Gregg for example, but as he deftly decries negative ads and negative politics, I believe he is naïve in his prescription for overcoming it.

Anti-Gingrich Spending Hammer

ouch.

Via Open Secrets (see snapshot below is from today), below is a summary of the independent expenditures (primarily from 527 PACs).  Out of $22.4 million spent on negative ads to date, 70.7% has been spent against Newt Gingrich.  Out of the money spent pro-Newt or anti-Newt, 83.9% have been run against Newt.  Out if all the money spent both pro and anti any candidate (i.e. all campaign spending by independent sources), 55.6% of all money spent, has been anti-Gingrich.

With all of that negativity aimed in his direction, not only is it amazing Newt Gingrich hasn't blown a gasket yet (indicating that he probably won't during the remainder of the election cycle), but it's truly astounding that he is in this race at all at this point.

That has to bode well for the long term of his candidacy if indeed he can win Florida even come close, the money should come.

Candidates Opposed/Supported

Candidate	Entire Cycle Total	Last Week Total	Last 24 Hours Total	Supported	Opposed
Gingrich, Newt (R)	$18,955,343	$7,069,723	$0	$3,049,023	$15,906,320
Romney, Mitt (R)	$6,311,434	$1,507,013	$0	$1,689,400	$4,622,034
Obama, Barack (D)	$2,086,413	$10,490	$0	$637,468	$1,428,699
Santorum, Rick (R)	$2,498,560	$0	$0	$2,099,559	$399,001
Paul, Ron (R)	$3,694,206	$173,918	$350	$3,561,216	$132,990
Perry, Rick (R)	$3,964,824	$0	$0	$3,964,824	$0
Huntsman, Jon (R)	$2,453,454	$0	$0	$2,453,454	$0
Cain, Herman (R)	$501,718	$0	$0	$501,718	$0
Total	$40,465,952	$8,761,144	$350	$17,956,662	$22,489,044