ing because of the excessive attacks candidates inflict on one another. The public expects a degree of professionalism from running candidates that should not include negative tactics. They only discourage the public's outlook on voting participation. Lastly, public perception of a bias and favorable media also contributes to a reduction in the voting population. As early as the 1960's, public perception of a bias media was first noticed; "however, current data suggest the American public views the media as increasingly less trustworthy…(Rouner)". Partisanship of news groups also discourages people from participating in the political process because news groups may be supportive of one party and their beliefs giving only one side of an issue. More of the American population may be better influenced to vote if news groups would take a neutral position supporting only the facts and produce a non-bias broadcast. In addition to partisanship, the idea of media being bought by candidates or parties to influence the public can also diminish voter turnout. For example, a wealthy candidate can purchase large amounts of airtime trying to earn more of the public's votes or simply a news affiliate that favors a candidate or party would donate more airtime to that candidate or party. Guaranteed by the first amendment, the media will always be there to inform the public and to decide what issues are important. Americans rely more and more on this media to judge how our leaders campaign, govern, shape public policy, and communicate their ideas. Yet, the public expects a degree of professionalism from running candidates that should not include negative tactics incorporating the media. News coverage of political campaigns can reduces voter turnout because of these negative campaign tactics used by candidates and their parties. Exit polls that predict the outcome of an election and can cause the voters not to vote because they feel that they alr...
