From This Collection

How political ads try to shape the way we feel about the economy

Apr 3, 2024
Campaigns and advocacy groups may spend up to $17 billion on ads in 2024. Many pitches will focus on the local and the personal.
According to Tess McRae of the Parkside Group, successful messaging for incumbents will highlight smaller ways people’s lives have improved — like lower gas prices.
Jim Watson/AFP via Getty Images

Perceptions that the economy's bad can cost you an election, even if the economy isn't actually bad

Mar 28, 2024
In 1992, voters’ perception that an improving economy was actually a bad economy contributed to Bush’s loss to Clinton. Could the same thing happen to Biden?
President George H. W.  Bush greets supporters ahead of a debate against soon-to-be President Bill Clinton in 1992. Bush blamed the media for pushing the narrative of a "bad" economy, despite positive economic indicators.
LUKE FRAZZA/AFP via Getty Images

What does a “good” economy look like — and are we in one?

Mar 27, 2024
Voters’ views on the economy don’t always match their own situation or national trends. The gap can color their views of candidates.
Yuki Iwamura/AFP via Getty Images