Election campaign methods

Question 1

Publishing a Manifesto

Answer 1

Parties will publish a new manifesto for every election campaign. Up-to-date manifestos will often include new “flagship” policies and inform potential voters, in detail, about the party’s vision for the country. A manifesto is a party’s unique vision and plans in document form. Essentially the policies and promises a party makes about what they will do if elected.

For example, in the SNP 2021 Manifesto a key policy featured was to increase spending on health

Question 2

Media

Answer 2

Use of the media, in an effective manner, is now essential for all political parties/candidates when it comes to campaigning. Using the media effectively allows the electorate to know about a party and its goals. Candidates can reach a wide range of different people quickly and social media in particular is useful in engaging younger voters.

Use of the media, in an effective manner, is now essential for all political parties/candidates when it comes to campaigning. Using the media effectively allows the electorate to know about a party and its goals. Candidates can reach a wide range of different people quickly and social media in particular is useful in engaging younger voters.

Question 3

Canvassing Door to Door

Answer 3

In the weeks leading up to an election,
candidates and local political party supporters/members will go door-to-door in their local areas, speaking to locals about their voting decisions. Canvassing gives candidates and parties the opportunity to speak with locals and gain a clear idea of the issues which actually matter

For example, in 2020 Johann Lamont MSP for Glasgow Pollok joined other canvessers and went door to door in her local area persuading people to vote Labour.