What I noticed most was how the crowd didn’t really matter. We were there as a set piece, an important part of the scene but certainly not the most important part. Or even the second most.
Presidential campaign rallies are made for tv events. And they are staged by the campaign, so whatever can be done to make the candidate appear in a more favorable light will be done. It is pure theater, with lights and sounds and even make-up.
It reminded me of going to a rock concert. To energize the crowd and set the mood, there was music before and after. Souvenirs were sold. And everyone was there for one purpose -- to see and hear the candidate. The only exception is that tickets were free.
We were told to arrive a few hours early as it was general admission. That also ensured everyone could get through security and in place before the candidate arrived. It also meant a captive audience for other speakers, generally local candidates who wouldn’t attract a crowd even if they were handing out $20 bills.
From what I recall, spectators couldn’t bring in signs (security reasons). However, signs were given away inside. That’s why you see so many of the same signs in the tv shots. It’s not that the spectators all shop at the same sign shop! It also ensures that no unapproved signs make it on to the nightly news.
You’ll notice there is usually a crowd of people behind the candidate. Those may be VIPS or even kids from the local schools, since their parents vote. And some may be holding signs. The crowd behind the candidate shows that, yes, there are real people at this event, without the camera having to cut away from the candidate. Once the candidate is elected, they rarely have people behind them. In place of local kids, there will probably be a backdrop with the theme of the day (“Cleaner Air for All”). It is funny because the crowd behind the candidate is tough to control. That means a well-timed smirk or yawn could make it onto the news. I know that I would not have been in the behind-the-candidate crowd when I was a kid!
The candidate I saw came into the arena to a mix tape of rock, rap and selected sound bites of the candidate repeating themes of the campaign. He waved to the crowd and shook a few hands, but generally got onto stage quick. It was well-timed so there was very little of the candidate standing around -- once he got out of his SUV he was onto the stage.
The speech itself consisted of the usual: “Great to be here in Elm Junction.” “I want to thank Representative Smith for those great welcome comments”. Then about 45 minutes of similar phrases I’d already heard on the news. There was some local element (“I know healthcare is important to Americans, especially the hardworking Americans here in Elm Junction!”). I didn’t applaud much. I figured no one would notice and, to this day, no one did.
This particular candidate didn’t use notes from what I could tell and I was impressed that anyone could talk off the cuff for such a long time without having a brain freeze or simply getting bored themselves. I did hear one comment and remembered him saying the same thing about 20 minutes before. The dangers of ad libbing for too long. But after about ten minutes, I was starting to think I’d heard it all before. And, truth be told, I probably had.
The candidate wrapped up his speech with a reminder to “remember the great work of Representative Smith when you go to the voting booth” in November, a thanks to the crowd and bounding off stage as the music kicked back into place and the house lights came up. A few handshakes to the VIPS and local politicians, then they’re off. Remember, if the tv cameras aren’t rolling, there is no reason for the candidate to stick around.
This particular candidate did “work the rope line”, which is when the candidate goes to the waist-high fence holding back the crowd, to shake hands and kiss babies. It is interesting to note that they don’t really shake hands the way you and I do. Instead, they sort of grab the top of your outstretched hand and shake it. This allows them to increase their “handshakes per hour” rate and let’s them control the handshake -- which is a security measure that decreases the chance that a spectator can grab their hand and pull them away from security.
I once attended a rally where there was no “rope line”. Instead it becomes a bit of a scrum which seems much more dangerous. From a security point-of-view, you want to avoid rugby field maneuvers when protecting a presidential candidate.
The candidate shook hands on the way to the door, a final wave to everyone, then back into the SUV to another stop (or a private party to pick up some campaign checks).
I did not actually see any babies being kissed. I think bringing a baby to a campaign rally should be considered child abuse.
I left the rally feeling a bit more excited about the election and this candidate’s chances, but I also left feeling that I didn’t know any more about the candidate or the issues of which he spoke. I did enjoy the experience and how much more there was to it all. I am sure some people get so energized by the sights and sounds that they can’t wait to vote for the person they’ve just seen -- in much the way going to a concert encourages people to go out and buy the cd.
I don’t know if I’d go to another presidential campaign rally. I guess it depends on what else I had to do that day. Where else can you see a bit of history without having to buy a ticket or pay for parking?
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