Staff Reports
In the world of crisis communications, the aftermath of an event often holds more weight than the event itself. How the narrative is spun can shape public opinion and define how we remember a situation. However, there are times when no amount of spin can change the perception, as was the case with the Trump-Biden presidential debate. The hardcore Democrats and entrenched Never Trumpers have their minds made up based on their self-identity and group affiliation, making them impervious to persuasion.
Looking back to 1984, we see parallels between the animosity towards Donald Trump, Ronald Reagan, and George W. Bush from the Left. Reagan, much like Trump now, faced relentless hatred and demonization from his critics. The media, embodying their claimed unbiased objectivity, launched scathing attacks on Reagan, only to be surprised when his positive public image remained intact despite their efforts to tarnish it.
When It Comes to PR, Ben Shapiro Is Almost Exactly Wrong: Feelings Don’t Care About Your Facts. https://t.co/xR1wAdurWU . #Trump2024 pic.twitter.com/xZXD9Z3SYa
— NahBabyNah 🗳️Trump🗳️ (@NahBabyNah) July 1, 2024
The lesson from history is clear: it’s not just the words said in a PR campaign that matter, but the emotions evoked by the images and actions of the subject. This is where Ben Shapiro’s take on PR misses the mark – feelings often outweigh facts in shaping public perception. President Biden’s struggles with public speaking and questionable mannerisms are creating lasting impressions that no amount of spin can erase, permanently defining his image in the minds of Americans.
In the realm of politics and public relations, it’s not about what’s said but how it makes people feel. The power of images and emotions can override any attempt to control the narrative with facts and spin. And in the case of Biden, it seems that the feelings evoked by his public appearances are leaving a lasting impact that no amount of PR can fully repair.
