The Push Poll Pledge

By: Rob
Published On: 9/25/2007 10:29:57 PM

Another Netroots for Virginia moment gets some WaPo press:

Leesburg Tomorrow has posted a press release from the Loudoun County Democratic Party pledging against "deceptive push polling." Calling the Democratic Party "the party of good government," the blogger wrote: "All candidates of good character should take the Push Poll Pledge, and condemn any organization which uses Push Polling." Read more on the blog.

A great idea -- a pledge against one of the most odious types of campaigning.  Let's see our Democratic candidates sign on.  Given the gutter campaign style of the Virginia GOP, I don't expect the Republican candidates to do the same.

Comments



Politics (VTYogi - 9/25/2007 11:04:07 PM)
It's a hard game.  I know we want to be the good guys all the time but, this business is so dirty, sometimes, I think we are better off not discussing it.  WHo cares!  I like hearing negative things about republicans.  I listen even though I know I am supporting the democrat.  Long live the push-poll!


It is an issue (Evan M - 9/26/2007 9:22:59 AM)
In Loudoun County, this is an actual campaign issue.
The Board of Supervisors and Push Polls, which is why we're discussing it.

Perhaps such polls would be okay if they put a disclaimer at the beginning of them: "this poll for entertainment purposes only."

;-)



Good idea (chippenham - 9/26/2007 10:49:35 AM)
But a lot of bloggers and even candidates are quick to call a legitimate poll a push poll.  I don't know how many candidates I've worked for who asked a question in their poll about their opponent, for example:

Opponents of Candidate X say that as County Commissioner he voted to raise taxes 3 times.  Do you think that is a very persuasive, somewhat persuasive, somewhat unpersuasive or not at all persuasive reason to oppose him?

And then their opponent asked a similar question about them in his or her poll and they said "He's doing a push poll!"

If your opponent is actually push polling you I'd be kind of pleased about that.  Usually its a sign of desperation and incompetence.  I don't know any credible consultants who recommend that type of behavior, even when they're candidate is likely to lose.