Four-Century Election Cycle

In 1791, the bill of rights was ratified, included within it, the first amendments to the constitution. Which protected the freedom of speech, press, peaceful assembly, religion, and petition. It destroyed the old system of complete governmental control and allowed the press to openly critique the state and those who ran the state. The media became the bridge crossing the gap between rulers and ruled, protected by the foundational law of the country. After two hundred and twenty five years, as well as countless technological innovations later the way news is presented has changed. As well as how the general public perceives those in power. This paper will discuss the twenty four hour news cycle and its effect on how the public perceive candidates …show more content…
In order to effectively compare the two eras, this writer will draw a comparison between the politics of the political organization Tammany hall in New York City to that of modern day campaigns, especially the last election cycle. In order to fully explore this topic the corruption of Tammany hall and the perceived corruption of modern day politics needs to be partially, if not fully ignored. George Plunkett, the man credited with dismantling Tammany hall was summarized by his eulogizer with the following quote. “He understood that in politics honesty doesn 't matter, efficiency doesn 't matter, progressive vision doesn 't matter. What does matter is the chance for a better job, a better price of wheat, better business conditions. Plunkett 's legacy is to that practicality.” (Wiles) In other words, the average person does not care about ideology or efficiency as long as they are able to work and feed their families. That is how Tammany hall, led by influential leaders such as Boss Tweed, was able to maintain power regardless of the wide held view that they were corrupt. (Wiles) Tammany hall, much like both modern day political parties promised jobs, a better economy, and the chance to better the lives for the average person. It did not matter that men such as Boss Tweed profited from the actions of the organizations. The same is similar to today’s politicians and is more than evident with the most recent election of Donald Trump; the public will overlook ethics whether real or perceived as long as they believe it will benefit their current living situation. Just as Boss Tweed promised jobs and an improved economy, president elect Trump promised the same. Therefore, while campaigning, voting, and finance laws have become more