THE NOBLE ART OF FLIP-FLOPING.
Article in the latest issue of Newsweek.
I did not read this article just appropriated the title.
Reversal of Opinion is common in everyday people.
It lead's to credibility problems when you shift position on too many issues too quick.
Obama might fall into this trap since he is new on the national stage.
Can you change positions in politics without damage to your political reputation.
Yes, but it depends on your district, state, and party.
A slow transformation can usually lead the public to change their position.
Nixon's opening to China was dramatic and shocking. Eventually, it was accepted.
Eisenhower sold the public the idea that the public could once again elect Republicans and not expect a depression. However, it took his full time in office to achieve this goal.
Flip-Flops are ultimately based on the perception of people who may or may not vote for the candidate (Independents).
Barack's supporters will vote for him even if Al Qaida blew up N.Y.C. with a nuke.
Independents are that point would go for McCain.
Democrats in the public's perception of them is that they are weak on national security, while Republicans are weak on economics.
Perception can be an illusion or a cold hard fact. Senator Sam Nunn of Georgia could never have gotten elected President because Liberals would find him too conservative in the primaries.
That's the point, your principles define where you can get elected and if you change too much then your consider a person without any convictions.
In essence, flip-flops are costly when attempted too many times.