March 2010

1. Mar 2010
   Resisting a "Treacherous Piety": Issues, Images, and Public Policy Deliberation in Presidential Campaigns ↗
   Trevor Parry-Giles
   Abstract

   Abstract In this essay I explore the ways in which the issue/image dichotomy operates as a default criticism of democratic practice by examining its basis in persistent tensions and idealistic theories of democracy. Turning to political practice, I then explore the articulation and value of political image rhetorics offered during the 2008 presidential election, paying particular attention to political advertisements from the Obama and McCain campaigns that appeared after their nominations were assured but before the national nominating conventions. Ultimately I offer a normative justification of political image rhetorics in campaign discourse as beneficial to deliberation about public policy and political leadership.

   discourse analysis
   doi:10.2307/41955590
2. Mar 2010
   The Rhetorical Presidency Meets the Unitary Executive: Implications for Presidential Rhetoric on Public Policy ↗
   Vanessa B. Beasley
   Abstract

   Abstract Communication scholars interested in presidential rhetoric on public policy are very familiar with the rhetorical presidency, but there is another paradigm worth our consideration: the unitary executive. This model emphasizes the institutional reasons why presidents might not use public discourse to promote theirpolicies, relying instead on the expanding powers of the executive branch. Although there is relatively little discussion of one model within scholarship dedicated to the other, this essay argues for the benefits of considering both models simultaneously. As changes occur within the executive office’s capacity for creating and enforcing public policy, so too must our critical orientation to the study of presidential rhetoric.

   rhetorical criticism discourse analysis public rhetoric
   doi:10.2307/41955589