Incumbency style  versus Challenger Style

Which candidates have used incumbency style and how?  (all levels)

• use symbolic trappings of office
• use the legitimacy of the office
• office demonstrates competency
• office can help create charisma
• make pseudo events (announcements of new plans)
• make appointments to jobs
• create task forces
• appropriate/grant funds to locals
• consult world leaders
• manipulate domestic issues (e.g. new benefits to voters
• get endorsements
• emphasize accomplishments
• be "above the battle" hard at work
• be aloof not involved in grubby politics
• ignore opponents and attacks
• don't campaign/work hard
• use surrogates
• create a crisis, esp. foreign

 Problems

• Must defend record - on the defense
• May be blamed for all problems
• Must look like they're working not just campaigning
• front runner high expectations

 Which candidates have used challenger style and how?

• Attack opponents record
• take the offensive on policy issues
• call for change
• emphasize optimism for future
• connect to tradition values of Americans
• appear to represent the political center
• delegate harsh attacks to media and others in party

Persuasive Campaigns vs Candidate Campaigns