Politico’s lead (and most-read) story today is a blistering critique of Gov. Sarah Palin’s political and communications strategy, relying heavily on blind quotes from Republican strategists in Washington, DC. Reporters Jonathan Martin and Andy Barr report:
Palin has endured numerous bruising trips through recent news cycles. There was the infamous YouTube turkey video in November where, unbeknownst to Palin, live turkeys were slaughtered just behind her within the camera frame. Then came a flap over remarks she made to a filmmaker in January. In February, conservatives were confused by her last-minute no-show at a key movement event. Most recently, Capitol Hill Republicans were left scratching their heads over a bizarre miscommunication between her office and the two national party committees.
I would add to that Gov. Palin’s media tour immediately following the election, which many believe resulted in her receiving more blame than she arguably deserved for the Republicans’ loss.
But what Politico does not point out is that as of late, Sarah Palin seems to be doing what every communications consultant I know (including myself) would advise: Avoiding national media and focus on being the best governor possible, while strategically using her immense fundraising power in the most effective ways possible.
The Tina Fey-inspired impression may take a long time to wear off in the minds of many voters, but fortunately for Governor Palin, she has time to spare. She can easily spend the next few months largely beneath the national radar, and then reintroduce herself at a strategically good time. Of course, making sure that any re-emergence on the national stage goes smoothly is easier said than done, and will be a key test of her and her team.
UPDATE: JMart points out to me (and Ben Smith) that the blind quotes and background info in his piece are “ALL from her defenders.” Clearly many of her supporters feel like their advice is falling on deaf ears, but as I point out above, I’d be curious to know how the strategic advise they’re offering is different from what she’s doing (as opposed to Monday-morning quarterbacking careless errors like the NRCC/NRSC announcement, obviously).
