In the movie General Haynesworth says, “ Television is the greatest persuasion instrument in the world” this is such a profound statement he knew that with the television and Lonesome he could control the citizens poltical ideals in particular the youth. The largest influence television had was on politics for example the people trusted in Lonesome and thought he could never steer them wrong even if it was regarding a poltical matter. In the movie Gen. Haynesworth sees the power that Rhodes holds over the people and knows he can push senator Fuller on to the people. Rhodes had to reinvent Fullers entire personality because the of the way new mass media was being depicted along with the youthful audience that wouldn’t accept this old guy with no sense of humor or reliability, similar to a lot of politicians today. Auer gives and example of an ABC program that found that presidents had to present them selves on television to have “ a demonstration of indispensable qualities”(Auer 111). This is a quality Lonesome portrayed not Fuller, but the crackle barrel show opened that door for Fuller. The crackle barrel show is also a great example the audience seen the light-hearted, downhome country boy, and softer side of Lonesome which people could Identify …show more content…
Politics and television worked together in a dangerous relationship because with the right person they could persuade young American voters into voting for something or someone they may not have any knowledge about. It also allowed you to see the politicians face and hear as well as see their body language and facial expressions while giving their speeches attempting to gain that trust factor with the audience. Politics and television had a very cohesive relationship although very one sided, because politics needed television. It was time for a change they had to reinvent the way the people viewed politics and Lonesome did just that. Politian’s had to change their language they had to make sure the people loved the politician, ultimately the people had to buy into what they were selling or pitching to the American people. However this could be dangerous because the influencal face that you see on the screen for example, Rhodes may not care about your best interest or issues the American people were having. The audience really didn’t know anything about Senator Fuller they knew he was a really good friend that Lonesome trusted and believed in. They have no idea what he stood for or what he wanted to change when he becomes