On the tactic of projection, the Gish Gallop and nutty beliefs.

[Garrett78]

Last edited Mon Nov 26, 2018, 01:28 AM - Edit history (1)

Here at DU, we often discuss the Republican tactic known as "projection." Republicans accuse Democrats of misdeeds that they themselves commit, or they claim success for things Democrats have done. Sadly, this tactic is effective. When Democrats accuse Republicans of that which they've been accused of, Democrats can appear defensive and the Republican goal of obfuscation is met. Simply confusing the public is a victory for Republicans.

But I don't recall hearing Democratic members of Congress talk about this in their various TV appearances, and I think that needs to change. Most don't follow politics as closely as we all do. Not everyone understands that Republicans are intentionally taking advantage of ignorance. Maybe this is wishful thinking, but perhaps we can somewhat pull the rug out from under Republicans by getting it into the public consciousness that Republicans are essentially taking reality and flipping it on its head. Just a thought.

I think the same goes for what's known as Gish Gallop, something the likes of Kellyanne Conway have perfected. I know there's only a limited amount of time and so much to discuss. And I understand that discussing issues of the day is most important. But I think it's also quite important to raise awareness about these tactics, for Democrats to say, "Look, this is what Republicans are doing. They're using the Goebbels playbook. Don't be fooled by it."

Lastly, I'd like Democrats to speak bluntly about the dangerous absurdity of so many people believing the kind of nonsense mentioned in this article: https://www.rawstory.com/2018/11/10-incredibly-fake-facts-trump-supporters-think-true/. We aren't going to win over those who are nuttier than squirrel shit, but perhaps we can prevent more people from joining their ranks by making it embarrassing to be so gullible and misinformed.

Just a few thoughts on a Sunday night.

[iluvtennis]

1. You're right on the projection thing - trumpty is a king at it. I seem to recall that Joy Reid,

Rachel Maddow, Lawrence O"Donnell discussing it a few times on their shows. Hillary even talked about it on the 2016 campaign trail. But, no one has kept pushing the point onward.

[Garrett78]

2. I know that some feel our elected officials aren't responsible for educating the masses, but...

...the fact of the matter is many people simply aren't political junkies. It's not enough to talk about issues. Democrats who have a platform need to also talk about tactics. Plant seeds in the public consciousness and help people understand the way they might be manipulated.

[Nitram]

3. I don't believe the term "projection" as properly undertood can refer to a "strategy."

It is the unconscious transfer of one's own guilt onto another person. It is an unconsccious defensee mechanism, not a planned strategy. If it is a strategy it might better be termed "The Big Lie."

[iluvtennis]

4. IN Trump's case, I don't think the projection is unconscious, I think it is deliberate.

[Garrett78]

6. I think it's deliberate on the part of Republicans in general. They know they're hypocrites.

But they also know their base is ignorant, and they exploit that fact for all its worth. In fact, they do all they can to keep them ignorant.

[iluvtennis]

7. +++ agree

[Progressive Jones]

5. Speaking of tactics and strategy,

it's long been my belief that the Democratic party should have some kind of major "political education" outreach.
Take some of that campaign cash, and develop a program that teaches Americans how the system works, and show them what the Dems can do for all Americans. Plain, simple information presented in a clear way. Buy TV time. Put up a website, and push it hard into the public. Get the word out!