The 2008 election ended up being a landslide victory for the now president-elect Barack Obama. While John McCain showed fight and hope early, once Obama won Ohio the election was basically his.
MSNBC’s coverage of the election showed and predicted everything just as NBC did, but that was a good thing. After Obama won Ohio they showed that with an inevitable victory coming in California he would only need five more electoral votes and how he surely had that and more to come.
They also constantly updated all the other races constantly as did all the other networks. They also, kept showing the updated red/ blue map of the United States as more and more states were declared. On their website, they also, had the same map and a list of all the other races.
MSNBC’s coverage of the election was very good in an election where it wasn’t very difficult after the first couple of hours to predict who would win. They called states as soon NBC called states. Their analysts shifted quickly to what an Obama win meant for both candidates and did a good job focusing on the senate races and control of congress as soon as Obama won and it became clear he would win. In the end, MSNBC’s coverage was a winner just like Obama.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
SNL Characters on election
Fred Armisen, Tina Fey, Darrell Hammond, and Jason Sudeikis have been playing Barack Obama, Sarah Palin, John McCain, and Joe Biden on Saturday Night Live sketches leading up to the election next week. Based on the interviews of these cast members and how it affects their schedule the following is a fictional conversation of the SNL players celebrating after one of their shows.
Tina Fey: I’m glad this election is almost over.
Jason Sudeikis: Why’s that? Hasn’t it been fun being back on SNL?
Tina Fey: Certainly but I’m so busy with 30 Rock and everything else. I really can’t handle much more.
Jason Sudeikis: What if McCain comes back and wins?
Tina Fey: Haha! O God, I hope not.
Fred Armisen: Me too. I haven’t had this much screen time ever. This barack impersonation has been my meal ticket.
Darrell Hammond: I really love portraying John McCain, but I’ve already done over a hundred celebrity impersonations over my tenure so I know I’ll begetting screen time no matter what. I’ll probably be somebody in Obama’s cabinet.
Jason Sudeikis: I like playing Biden. I feel like I get to yell at people a lot.
Tina Fey: Well hey, no matter how it goes it’s been a fun election.
Sudeikis/ Hammond/ Armisen: Here! Here!
Tina Fey: I’m glad this election is almost over.
Jason Sudeikis: Why’s that? Hasn’t it been fun being back on SNL?
Tina Fey: Certainly but I’m so busy with 30 Rock and everything else. I really can’t handle much more.
Jason Sudeikis: What if McCain comes back and wins?
Tina Fey: Haha! O God, I hope not.
Fred Armisen: Me too. I haven’t had this much screen time ever. This barack impersonation has been my meal ticket.
Darrell Hammond: I really love portraying John McCain, but I’ve already done over a hundred celebrity impersonations over my tenure so I know I’ll begetting screen time no matter what. I’ll probably be somebody in Obama’s cabinet.
Jason Sudeikis: I like playing Biden. I feel like I get to yell at people a lot.
Tina Fey: Well hey, no matter how it goes it’s been a fun election.
Sudeikis/ Hammond/ Armisen: Here! Here!
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Candidates SNL Reactions
The following are mock letters written by the candidates running in the 2008 election.
Dear Lorne Michaels,
I would just like to say that fellow playing me on SNL does a wonderful job impersonating me. He really hit the nail on the head with me. I am a maverick. I am a straight-talker. And I have crossed party lines numerous times over the year to the dismay of my own party. That’s what we need from our next president someone who will cross party lines and be bipartisan, unlike that other guy. That’s why I want to thank you for your upcoming vote. Clearly, you’ve seen us for who we are and that’s why I know I can count on at least one vote out of New York.
Sincerely,
John McCain
To Whom It May Concern:
The lovely Tina Fey does a wonderfully hilarious impersonation of me. She’s so pretty and smart. She seems like she has a little maverick in her. Maybe one day she can run for vice-president. I still don’t know exactly what the V.P. does so maybe she’s as or even more qualified then me. Anyways I do have one complaint. I think you’ve been far too easy on Obama. I think you need to have sketches having him hanging out and playing basketball with terrorist like William Ayers. Maybe even Osama? These are just a few suggestions from a regular, maverick hockey mom.
Love,
Sarah Palin ♥
Dear Mr. Michaels,
Even though I’m running for the highest most powerful office in the world, I understand humor still plays an important role in society. I understand this because I am a very, very understanding person. Now, while you’ve really hit on John McCain and Sarah Palin and even Hilary Clinton, I think you’ve missed the boat on me a little. First off I’ve been a much better and eloquent speaker then you’ve had me portrayed. In fact, I could probably right some pretty funny jokes for you as I’m actually quite a funny guy. On another note, I would like to thank you for being much harsher on the McCain campaign and their gaffes then my own. John might say this is the media being biased but we know it’s the media doing what’s right for the country.
Sincerely,
Barack Obama
Dear Lorne,
Even though I’m running for the highest most powerful office in the world I still watch SNL. You guys are hilarious. Really, you guys are hilarious. Adam Sandler does a wonderful impersonation of me. Though I have to say I think my hair looks a little better in real life and is even a little blonder. I also, love your McCain humor. He’s a great guy, a dear friend, and has a terrific sense of humor but your portrayal of him as a nutcase should help us win this election, although sometimes I wish the ticket could be McCain/ Biden. Nonetheless, come Thanksgiving I fully expect Obama/ Biden will be wrapping up this election with a final push.
Your Next Vice-President,
Joseph Biden
Dear Lorne Michaels,
I would just like to say that fellow playing me on SNL does a wonderful job impersonating me. He really hit the nail on the head with me. I am a maverick. I am a straight-talker. And I have crossed party lines numerous times over the year to the dismay of my own party. That’s what we need from our next president someone who will cross party lines and be bipartisan, unlike that other guy. That’s why I want to thank you for your upcoming vote. Clearly, you’ve seen us for who we are and that’s why I know I can count on at least one vote out of New York.
Sincerely,
John McCain
To Whom It May Concern:
The lovely Tina Fey does a wonderfully hilarious impersonation of me. She’s so pretty and smart. She seems like she has a little maverick in her. Maybe one day she can run for vice-president. I still don’t know exactly what the V.P. does so maybe she’s as or even more qualified then me. Anyways I do have one complaint. I think you’ve been far too easy on Obama. I think you need to have sketches having him hanging out and playing basketball with terrorist like William Ayers. Maybe even Osama? These are just a few suggestions from a regular, maverick hockey mom.
Love,
Sarah Palin ♥
Dear Mr. Michaels,
Even though I’m running for the highest most powerful office in the world, I understand humor still plays an important role in society. I understand this because I am a very, very understanding person. Now, while you’ve really hit on John McCain and Sarah Palin and even Hilary Clinton, I think you’ve missed the boat on me a little. First off I’ve been a much better and eloquent speaker then you’ve had me portrayed. In fact, I could probably right some pretty funny jokes for you as I’m actually quite a funny guy. On another note, I would like to thank you for being much harsher on the McCain campaign and their gaffes then my own. John might say this is the media being biased but we know it’s the media doing what’s right for the country.
Sincerely,
Barack Obama
Dear Lorne,
Even though I’m running for the highest most powerful office in the world I still watch SNL. You guys are hilarious. Really, you guys are hilarious. Adam Sandler does a wonderful impersonation of me. Though I have to say I think my hair looks a little better in real life and is even a little blonder. I also, love your McCain humor. He’s a great guy, a dear friend, and has a terrific sense of humor but your portrayal of him as a nutcase should help us win this election, although sometimes I wish the ticket could be McCain/ Biden. Nonetheless, come Thanksgiving I fully expect Obama/ Biden will be wrapping up this election with a final push.
Your Next Vice-President,
Joseph Biden
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
The following is a fictional twittering conversation between John McCain campaign manager Steve Schmidt and Barack Obama campaign manager David Plouffe during the second presidential debate.
Plouffe (0:40)- Why does Tom get to pick the questions?
Schmidt (3:28)- So is he going to answer the question?
Plouffe (7:22)- giving a lot power to an unnamed source?
Schmidt (8:50)- looks like you don’t have anyone either o and you completely ignored the question
Schmidt (10:15)- Does anyone know how this bailout works?
Plouffe (10:16)- I don’t think so.
Schmidt (11:49)- Well aren’t we getting chippy early tonight.
Plouffe (13:00)- There’s chippy for you.
Schmidt (14:25)- O the I don’t point fingers even though I already did.
Plouffe (23:30)- again with the partisan.
Schmidt (24:00)- That’s right you need to be able to multitask when you’re the President.
Schmidt (25:10)- Is your candidate comparing himself to JFK and his race to the moon.
Schmidt (26:38)- You believe this guy rushing are candidates.
Plouffe (26:39)- Tom becomes the moderator and he thinks he’s The Almighty.
Plouffe (28:10)- That’s not going to be too popular
Schmidt (28:11)- Doesn’t matter he’s a straight talker.
Schmidt (33:10)- He’s a doctor now.
Schmidt (35:27)- Yes, that’s the point we want to get across!
Plouffe (36:00)- Tom! Let him respond.
Schmidt (37:00)- So he’s already serving two terms.
Plouffe (37:34)- Sounds better then your plan.
Plouffe (39:25)- Is that cause he can’t respond
Schmidt (40:14) Looks like he’s responding right now.
Schmidt (42:40) Good John keep separating yourself from Bush.
Plouffe (44:10) These are great points by Barack.
Plouffe (45:10) 23! Really? Ouch!
Schmidt (45:12) That’s misrepresenting the numbers.
Plouffe (45:16) You guys haven’t done that.
Plouffe (46:20) Brokaw’s has jokes.
Schmidt (46:21) Your candidate blames mine, surprise, sure the media will too.
Schmidt (47:46) Look at john cracking Tom up.
Plouffe (49:12) Where is your candidate walking too.
Plouffe (1:24:48) Well I think we did pretty well again.
Schmidt (1:25:56) I think John won the debate.
Plouffe (1:26:02) I think Barack won. We’ll see what the polls say.
Schmidt (1:26:18) I’ll talk to you during the third debate.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
TW Cable: Here’s how to watch TV online
I read this article on lostremote.com about a dispute by Time Warner Cable and Lin TV. Apparently Lin TV wants to be paid by Time Warner for airing there shows and have gone dark since being rebuffed. However, the odd thing is Time Warner has posted a tutorial on how to watch shows online for free. This is odd as usually cable channels want their shows to be watched on television and are against people watching shows online unless its through a way in which they can better themselves. I guess Time Warner is just that upset with Lin TV.
I read this article on lostremote.com about a dispute by Time Warner Cable and Lin TV. Apparently Lin TV wants to be paid by Time Warner for airing there shows and have gone dark since being rebuffed. However, the odd thing is Time Warner has posted a tutorial on how to watch shows online for free. This is odd as usually cable channels want their shows to be watched on television and are against people watching shows online unless its through a way in which they can better themselves. I guess Time Warner is just that upset with Lin TV.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
print v online
The New York times print article versus online article (http://www.nytimes.com/2008/09/29/business/29bill.html?ex=1380427200&en=933b094dee82628a&ei=5124).
The articles are both written exactly the same and have the same amount of words. However, they are presented in different contexts. The print version starts on the front page with the headline above the fold and then continues on A15. On the other hand, the print version is presented in its entirety on one page. The online article allows you to on certain words or phrases in the article such as Federal Reserve or Henry M. Paulson Jr. which redirects you to a definition or small biography. Neither version of the article is accompanied by pictures.
The articles are both written exactly the same and have the same amount of words. However, they are presented in different contexts. The print version starts on the front page with the headline above the fold and then continues on A15. On the other hand, the print version is presented in its entirety on one page. The online article allows you to on certain words or phrases in the article such as Federal Reserve or Henry M. Paulson Jr. which redirects you to a definition or small biography. Neither version of the article is accompanied by pictures.
McCain and Obama mudslinging ads
The 2008 election has been full of each presidential candidate making harsh accusations about the other. The television campaign ads have been called into question by both sides.
The Huffington Post headline read, “Gutter Politics: McCain Campaign Called Out For Half-Truths” in response to one of McCain’s ads against Obama. In the add in question, the McCain ad said Obama agreed to teaching kindergarteners about sex education.
Obama responded, “It is shameful and downright perverse for the McCain campaign to use a bill that was written to protect young children from sexual predators as a recycled and discredited political attack.”
This is just one example of the half-truths that have been spun in ads this far. Obama did the same in his most recent ad as well. In the ad, he portrays McCain as old and out of touch but doesn’t mention that the Arizona Senator’s war injuries are what actually prevent him from using computers for an extended period.
Obama’s own running-mate Joe Biden said, “making fun of John McCain’s inability to use a computer, I thought that was terrible.”
Biden said if he had known about it they wouldn’t have done it. However, he did go on to say he did not believe the ad was intentionally personal and was not nearly as bad as the McCain ads.
Obama’s most recent ad defends himself from accusations made by McCain and point the “sleaziness” and “half-truths” by McCain as the only negative parts.
Nonetheless, with so much name calling already, the 2008 election has taken on a very negative vibe and it will be interesting to see if new ads continue to go in the same direction or try to take on a more positive light.
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The Huffington Post headline read, “Gutter Politics: McCain Campaign Called Out For Half-Truths” in response to one of McCain’s ads against Obama. In the add in question, the McCain ad said Obama agreed to teaching kindergarteners about sex education.
Obama responded, “It is shameful and downright perverse for the McCain campaign to use a bill that was written to protect young children from sexual predators as a recycled and discredited political attack.”
This is just one example of the half-truths that have been spun in ads this far. Obama did the same in his most recent ad as well. In the ad, he portrays McCain as old and out of touch but doesn’t mention that the Arizona Senator’s war injuries are what actually prevent him from using computers for an extended period.
Obama’s own running-mate Joe Biden said, “making fun of John McCain’s inability to use a computer, I thought that was terrible.”
Biden said if he had known about it they wouldn’t have done it. However, he did go on to say he did not believe the ad was intentionally personal and was not nearly as bad as the McCain ads.
Obama’s most recent ad defends himself from accusations made by McCain and point the “sleaziness” and “half-truths” by McCain as the only negative parts.
Nonetheless, with so much name calling already, the 2008 election has taken on a very negative vibe and it will be interesting to see if new ads continue to go in the same direction or try to take on a more positive light.
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