Seven Ways the GOP Can Counter the Media's Representation of Republicans

For decades, the Republican Party has consistently lamented that it is mistreated by the media.

Complaints include that the media does not accurately report the Party's positions, that it editorializes Republican views rather than merely reporting them, and that it sometimes attacks Republicans outright.

Rather than relying on the media, the Republican Party needs to develop methods to convey its views to the voters.

Communicate With Voters in Their District/State

Republicans send emails and letters asking for money and donations, but they rarely send correspondence that seeks to update on the issues.

They should send emails and letters discussing their views on current events and issues, legislation being debated, and their committee work. This correspondence will keep constituents informed, and voters will not have to rely on the media for news on the work of their representative/senator.

If the correspondence is sent electronically, it could be forwarded to others and inform more people. If it is electronic, it could also contain a video message from the elected official.

Have Events and Rallies Throughout Their Terms With Their Constituents 

The goal of these events should be to inform voters and also get feedback from them.

They should not be fundraisers; in fact, they should be free of charge. If the official gives a speech, it should be streamed on the official's social media and website.

These events are great opportunities to interact with voters.

Additionally, if the media covers them, the gatherings can reach people via the media's reports.

Use Social Media and the Internet

Officials should post comments, videos, and press releases to sites such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc.

They should also put these materials on their official website. Social media and websites are free, and, unlike news reports, they can contain unfiltered messaging from elected officials.

Employ a Greater National Media Presence

One consistently sees the same handful of congressmen and senators being interviewed on television. These individuals, however, can can only do so many interviews.

It would be beneficial if more officials were on TV so that the Republican message could be shared more often. Interviews are advantageous because Republicans can explain their viewpoints and choices rather than having a reporter (who might be biased) do so.

Republicans should be careful, however, that they send the most articulate and relatable officials to do interviews.

The Party should also strive to ensure that the officials reflect the diversity of the Party.

Select Interviewers Carefully and Keep Copies of the Entire Interview

Republicans know which interviewers and networks are unbiased and which have an agenda against them. Republicans should strive to only interview with those who are fair and honest.

Tough questions are acceptable. Questions based on untruths are not.

For every interview, Republicans should keep copies of its entirety in the case of deceptive editing. Live interviews are preferable because they are not edited in the initial viewing.

Choose House, Senate, and Party Leaders Who Interview Well and Often

These individuals lead the other Republican officials, and, consequently, their words carry extra weight. These leaders should consistently do interviews to explain Republican positions and refute Democrat ones. Elected officials should be sure to select leaders who are willing to do many interviews and are able to persuade the public.

Make Use of Local Media

Officials should do regular TV and radio interviews in their districts/states and also regularly write Op-Ed pieces for the local newspapers.

This communication will keep their constituents informed about the official's and the Party's positions. Regular interaction with voters will also likely help in reelection campaigns.

The above recommendations are based on the assumption that GOP elected officials want to comment on the issues of the day and legislation being debated. It often appears, however, that Republicans are content to stay quiet and let the media portray them a certain way.

So, Republican voters should not reelect GOP officials who prefer to stay silent and let the media misrepresent them and the Republican Party.