Dear Tennessee Star,
It wasn’t until I heard an interview with the social research scientist Robert Epstein about the impact of Internet messages on political thought that I first grasped the complete gravity of this problem. Epstein’s conclusion was that moderate and conservative Republicans are the voter group most easily influenced by what they see in the media. Wow!
Each time I witness political offices being bought like auction items instead of side by side comparisons, I remember the Marshall McLuhan axiom “the medium is the message.” Consequently, if you can afford to buy enough of the medium, you can own the result of the message.
So what is the true message of a candidate for the US House of Representatives who once elected will earn a salary for 2 years at $175K, currently “loaning” their campaigns millions of dollars which they’ll earn back in after-win donations? And what common sense campaign finance law would permit a candidate to obtain a $500,000 loan at 3% simple interest from a local bank to finance such an operation?
Such is the case in the TN 6th District House race. State Representative Judd Matheny is clearly the candidate most closely aligned with the politics of the 6th District and yet his opponents, using their great personal wealth and an image they’re sold by consultants will, upon winning, receive money back in contributions and pay off that bank. Who in their right mind doesn’t believe that is corruption?
Sincerely,
Tony G.
Hendersonville, TN
