Presidential Communication: The Country is Listening

Politics bring on a need for communication. During this historic election year, NCA is tackling the meaning of presidential conversation. From Eisenhower to George W. Bush to president-elect Barack Obama, panelists discussed the strategies and skills behind these political leaders.

Panelists noted important traits from past leaders such as Eisenhower in their papers, addressing the still relevant need for them in today's society.

"Like Eisenhower, the president shouldn't be seen as being partisan because his true ability is to work in his persona as an outsider," Lora Cohn of Park University said.

From the past to the present, all eyes were on the close presidential race between John McCain and Barack Obama this year. Johnathan Riehl of North Carolina State University discusses how Obama drew on the past to snag his recent victory.

"Obama did what Ronald Reagan once did, he stressed unity over diversity with a sense of optimism," Riehl said.

While discussing the links between the times when Reagan stepped up to the presidency and the times we are experiencing now, Riehl notes the strategy both Reagan and Obama use to  address America during turmoil.

"They are emphasizing our commonality and our nationality because these are the ideals that bind us together, rather than the material relaities that we want to work on together," Riehl said.

From the days of Reagan and Eisenhower to the days leading up to the Inauguration in January, presidential communication is vital especially to a country who is listening for solutions.