Racist Politics

An analysis of negative ads put out by John McCain's 2008 campaign documents the use of darkened images of Barack Obama. And other studies correlate viewing darker skin with increased support for right-wing organizations. The campaign study finds that "darker images can activate [racial] stereotypes". Right-wing support "result[s], in part, from threats to the status of whites in America".

Never underestimate the existence of racial resentment in the United States. How many people still view Obama as unqualified and so why not just support any bozo? No serious person could give a reasoned argument in favor of the Republican nominee and so the whole election becomes a big joke to them--let's teach those Obama voters a lesson.

Update (June 28):  A survey from Pew Research Center shows that whites and blacks are far apart on views about race, especially white Republicans.

Update (June 29):  A poll from Reuter's/Ipsos about racial attitudes shows that supporters of the Republican nominee are more likely to hold negative opinions of African Americans than the supporters of other candidates.

Also, Lilly Workneh summarizes the Pew survey.

1. Most black people believe the country should do more to achieve racial equality, while less than half of white people say enough has already been done. 

2. Black and white America’s assessment of President Barack Obama’s impact on race relations widely differ. 

3. Most black and white Americans are aware of Black Lives Matter but have mixed views on their support and assessment of the movement. 

4. Black people believe institutional racism is a critical problem while more white people say individual instances of discrimination are a bigger concern. 

5. Black people experience discrimination at a much higher rate than whites. 

6. Racial gaps persist when it comes to household income and poverty.