Analyzing Political Coverage Around the Web
Learn more about Election 2012, the candidates, the issues, and the trends, by exploring the Web. As you read and explore, it is important to ask yourself:
- Who is publishing this material?
- Are they attempting to present facts or persuade readers?
- Are they affiliated with other groups or organizations that attempt to present facts or persuade readers?
Web sites that relate to politics and elections can be grouped into several categories:
Some Web sites collect and rate the claims and speeches of candidates and political parties, or provide information about funding and contributions to political campaigns.
FactCheck.org is produced by the Annenberg Foundation
Open Secrets describes itself as a “nonpartisan guide to money’s influence on U.S. elections and public policy.”
PolitiFact is produced by the St. Petersburg Times.
The Internet is home to hundreds of blogs and Web sites where people publish their ideas and opinions about politics. Be aware that they may present facts or information selectively in order to persuade readers.
A political party is a group of people with general shared interests about government. They work together to help candidates they support win elections. A political action committee, or PAC, is an organization set up by interest groups especially to collect money to support favored candidates or influence elections. Web sites for political parties and PACs are actively trying to persuade readers to share their views.
Official Web site for the Republican Party
Official Web site for the Democratic Party
Federal Sites
The Federal Election Commission enforces regulations that relate to how campaigns are financed. Visit their Web site to see summaries of how much money is being spent, and where. Be sure to check out the list of everyone currently running for the office of president.
You can visit the Web site for the U.S. Electoral College to learn more the role of the Electoral College in electing the U.S. president.
White House.gov is the digital home base of the current presidential administration. It changes with every new elected executive.
Dig Deeper
From the list below, select a topic that interests you. Visit the official Web sites of the Republican and Democratic parties. Search for information about the issue you selected on each party’s site. Create a 2-column chart that contrasts the views of each party on that issue.
- The Economy and Jobs
- The Environment
- National Security
- Immigration
Lia Eastep
