Authenticity, Not Marketing

I would encourage both candidates running for this office to strive for authenticity in the display of their individual characters. My advice on how to address religion in their campaigns would have more to do with the integrity of their character than the specific focus on the "topic" of religion.

John McCain has gotten to where he is by his convictions and his character; no need for him to resort to sarcasm or cynicism. Barack Obama has a charismatic delivery in each and every presentation he makes; at the same time to display some particular convictions rather than a neutral "all things to all people" approach would heighten the sense of authenticity that I think the people are looking for.

For either candidate if the "church" or "religion" is used as a selling point, and the convictions that either candidate articulates are manufactured rather than authentic, the church, and the American public as a whole will see straight through it. I think authenticity will garner more votes than a manufactured campaign strategy focused on addressing religion.

By Matt Maher | August 27, 2008; 4:59 PM ET Save & Share:
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