Colleen Callahan, a candidate running for an Illinois' seat in the United States House of Representatives, has released a political ad that resorts to a classic use of fear mongering.
Callahan's ad is a modern day rendition of LBJ's famous Daisy campaign advertisement (which can be found here). When the original Daisy ad was released, it was criticized for attempting to frighten voters. Walter Mondale tried a similar ad in the 1984 presidential campaign.
Callahan paints her opponent, Aaron Schock, as the "candidate of death" through repetitive of use of colors and a contrast of settings. Muted and strong uses of red are sandwiched between nature scenes that help elevate Callahan to a candidate siding with nature and innocence. Callahan is clearly displayed in front of a green pasture, while images of her opponent are noticeably more menacing due to being placed side by side with missiles and bright red explosions.
The need for this type of ad baffles me. Callahan can easily capitalize on Schock's "shocks" without unleashing a wave of fear, which could potentially backfire and turn her into the ugly candidate.
The Candidates' Official Websites
Aaron Schock
Colleen Callahan
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