Election Day 2014: Are “Elderly” Family Members a Candidate’s Best Campaign Resource?

Tommorow we have respite, for at least a few months, from the barrage of political ads. In the meantime, I have to say that this season there seems to be an exceptionally high number of television ads involving the candidates’ own family members, and the older the better, it seems. 

Former President Jimmy Carter, age 90, has been campaigning across Georgia on behalf of his grandson Jason.  In Pennsylvania, one governor candidate has his mother on commercials and appearing at campaign stops, explaining how her son knows the importance of protecting seniors.  In Maryland, a judicial candidate for a probate court position, explains that he  decided to run after “caring for several elderly family members for several years.” Perhaps you have examples from your state?

It could be that such a strategy reflects a hard truth, that younger voters are largely alienated by the current political scene and unlikely to vote. A core community of potential voters?  Those age 60+.   

November 7, Election Post Script:  Jimmy Carter’s son Jason was defeated in his campaign for governor of Georgia.  Tom Wolf’s mother joined in the celebration of her son’s election to governor of Pennsylvania.  Thomas Walsh was defeated in his general election bid to retain his seat as an Orphans Court Judge in Maryland.  Older relatives are not, it seems, a magic bullit for candidates.