The Running Mate :: essays research papers

The Running Mate, Joe Kleins political novel, contained a fictional candidate named Charlie Martin. In this book, Charlie Martin is democratic candidate for the U. S. Senate. Martin was a Vietnam veteran, who became a politician because of his mother who was Martins hometown Mayor. Four years earlier, Mr. Martin ran for President. He was defeated in the primary election by the current fictional President, Democrat Jack Stanton and at the end of novel has aspirations to run for Governor. Charlie Martin has several strengths and weakness as a political candidate. rough of his strengths atomic number 18 that he is a good speaker, as demonstrated in the debates, a Vietnam veteran, and has experience. His major weakness was that his mind was not on the runnel, but on a woman. Also, in this novel, there were the Lords. These characters served were Charlie Martins Vietnam buddies. They were his friends and some were his advisors, like Gidian Reese, who was the National Security Advisor. His role as a Senator was like that of any other Senator. He votes on bills, like the bills that were proposed by President Jack Stanton, proposes bills, and accepts illegal money from outside sources. The President, media, interest groups, committees, congressional staff and money all influence on who is institute to office. All of these people/groups influence by giving money, influencing of a persons background, or on who is an important person. Policy for appointing someone to office is that, if you scratch my back Ill scratch yours. Meaning, that if someone gives you a large amount of money, then the candidate usually returns the favor by appointed him or her to a selected office. During Charlie Martins campaign to become U. S. Senator, his advantage over his opponent was that Martin was the incumbent. The term folk-poking generally refers to shaking hands, meeting people, and making public advanceances. Elected officials use this tactic because it helps the official appear to be of the people. Also, it may help a potential official get his name out. Martins opponent, the Muffler Man, Lee Butler has several advantages over Martin. Some of these advantages are that Butler is a newcomer to politics, has his own radio show, the bible biker tour, is a well-known celebrity, and is very wealthy. The significance of family plays an important factor in Martins campaign. When running for an elected office the candidates family will be under much scrutiny.