key term - Horse-race coverage

Definition

Horse-race coverage in the media refers to the treatment of political campaigns, particularly elections, focusing primarily on who is ahead or behind in polls and predictions rather than on policy issues or candidate qualifications. This type of reporting emphasizes the competitive aspects of politics, mirroring the ups and downs of a horse race.

Related terms

Opinion Polls: Surveys used to gauge public opinion regarding specific topics or preferences for candidates in an election.

Media Bias:

The tendency for media outlets to present information in a way that reflects a particular perspective or preference, potentially influencing public perception and opinions.

Electoral Strategy: The planning and tactics employed by candidates and political parties aimed at securing victory in an election, often including how they communicate with voters through various media channels