ET Election Index (Candidates) - October 15, 2019
October 15, 2019·1 comment·et election index
The 2020 election narrative has solidified around a single frame: identity and class division. But what happens when coverage of individual candidates stops matching their actual positions and starts conforming to this preset template instead?
• Elizabeth Warren's rise in attention corresponds with a shift in her media narrative, not a change in her platform. Her coverage became significantly more positive while simultaneously becoming more cohesive with the election's dominant identity-focused storyline. The question is whether this reflects genuine momentum or narrative reassignment.
• Biden remains highly visible but almost entirely in negative coverage, while other candidates with similar policy positions receive substantially more positive treatment. The disparity between his poll standing and his media sentiment is stark enough to suggest something other than policy evaluation is driving coverage.
• Sanders maintains the most coherent narrative structure, yet this clarity doesn't translate to electoral momentum. A candidate can be consistently portrayed in media and still not gain traction if his coherent message doesn't align with what voters are responding to.
• Harris and Yang demonstrate how candidates outside the dominant narrative frame get fragmented coverage. When a candidate doesn't fit cleanly into the identity-focused storyline, media outlets cover them inconsistently or in isolation rather than as part of a larger picture.
• The election narrative structure itself has become the mechanism through which candidates are evaluated, rather than serving as a backdrop for substantive comparison. If this framework is what voters are actually responding to, then understanding how it formed and who benefits from it becomes more important than understanding the candidates themselves.
Subscribe Today to Read More
Unlock instant access to this and hundreds of other evergreen essays that explore the world of narrative through hard science and human wisdom.
- Make more informed decisions as an investor and citizen.
- See through the nudges of Big Politics and Big Media.
- Become a better consumer of news.
- Maintain your autonomy of mind in a swarm of narratives.
- Join a community of more than 100,000 truth-seekers.
Looking for Deeper Insights?
Unlock exclusive market intelligence, trade ideas, and member-only events tailored for investment professionals and active investors with Perscient Pro.
VISIT PRO
DISCLOSURES
This commentary is being provided to you as general information only and should not be taken as investment advice. The opinions expressed in these materials represent the personal views of the author(s). It is not investment research or a research recommendation, as it does not constitute substantive research or analysis. Any action that you take as a result of information contained in this document is ultimately your responsibility. Epsilon Theory will not accept liability for any loss or damage, including without limitation to any loss of profit, which may arise directly or indirectly from use of or reliance on such information. Consult your investment advisor before making any investment decisions. It must be noted, that no one can accurately predict the future of the market with certainty or guarantee future investment performance. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results.
Statements in this communication are forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements and other views expressed herein are as of the date of this publication. Actual future results or occurrences may differ significantly from those anticipated in any forward-looking statements, and there is no guarantee that any predictions will come to pass. The views expressed herein are subject to change at any time, due to numerous market and other factors. Epsilon Theory disclaims any obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or views expressed herein. This information is neither an offer to sell nor a solicitation of any offer to buy any securities. This commentary has been prepared without regard to the individual financial circumstances and objectives of persons who receive it. Epsilon Theory recommends that investors independently evaluate particular investments and strategies, and encourages investors to seek the advice of a financial advisor. The appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor's individual circumstances and objectives.
Comments
I am interested in Yang and his campaign. He is the only candidate that spends meaningful time attempting to reach over the aisle and shake hands with (gasp) Trump supporters, and when the process of selecting a Democratic candidate is complete the ability to reach republican voters will become crucial. Also, Yang’s thoughts and ideas around automation and the tool set of policies needed to tackle the high-speed economic changes afoot, are refreshing. Make America Think Harder indeed. The MATH pin worn during the debate was an added bonus!
Continue the discussion at the Epsilon Theory Forum...