Dirty Campaign Tricks: Documented Reports from 2020 Election

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In summary, the conversation discusses the prevalence of dirty campaigning in recent history, with mentions of specific incidents such as Bush slandering McCain's adoption in 2000 and Romney supporters removing McCain signs. The conversation also touches on the use of smear campaigns in South Carolina and the idea that it has become the norm in the state.
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Gokul43201
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Recent history is rife with incidents of dirty campaigning (e.g., Bush sliming McCain's adoption in 2000).

This campaign year is hardly likely to be a beacon of decency for the future. If you come across any serious use of slime or brazen underhandedness, beyond the typical attack ads that sprout like weeds this season, use this thread to catalog them.
 
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Here one to start things off: Romney supporters remove McCain signs



That's pretty pathetic!
 
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Gokul43201 said:
Here one to start things off: Romney supporters remove McCain signs



That's pretty pathetic!


I agree. People from New Hampshire are amateurish and inept. People from South Carolina know how to do it right. I mean, this is the state where the GOP increased voter turnout by finding a nearly illiterate black man named Benjamin Hunt, entering him into the Congressional race as an independent, and papering the district with posters of Hunt standing in front of the local Kentucky Fried Chicken.

The main reason it hasn't been in the news more is that it's become the norm for South Carolina. South Carolina Smear Campaigns If everybody (or almost everybody) does it, maybe it evens out. Besides, there hasn't been any of the particularly creative tricks used by Lee Atwater and Karl Rove (or Rod Shealy - the guy who came with the idea of entering a sham candidate into the race). http://www.miamiherald.com/campaign08/story/384115.html
 
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1. What is considered a "dirty campaign trick"?

A dirty campaign trick is any deceptive or unethical tactic used by a candidate or their supporters in order to gain an advantage over their opponents during an election campaign. This can include spreading false information, manipulating media, or using personal attacks.

2. How common are dirty campaign tricks in elections?

Dirty campaign tricks have been present in elections throughout history, but their frequency and impact can vary depending on the political climate and the specific candidates involved. In recent years, there has been a rise in the use of dirty campaign tactics due to the increasing use of social media and the internet in political campaigns.

3. Who is responsible for regulating dirty campaign tricks?

In most cases, it is the responsibility of the government or election authorities to regulate and penalize dirty campaign tactics. However, there may also be ethical standards set by political parties and organizations that can hold candidates accountable for their actions.

4. Can dirty campaign tricks sway the outcome of an election?

While it is difficult to measure the exact impact of dirty campaign tricks on election outcomes, they can certainly influence voters' opinions and decisions. In close races, even a small shift in voter sentiment can ultimately determine the winner.

5. How can voters protect themselves from falling victim to dirty campaign tricks?

Voters can protect themselves by fact-checking information from multiple sources, being critical of sensationalized or biased media coverage, and researching the candidates and their policies directly. It is also important to be aware of common dirty campaign tactics and to report any suspicious or misleading information.

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