“Americanization" of Political Campaigns: The Case of Young Party in 3 Th November 2002 Election

Abstract

“AMERICANIZATION” OF POLITICAL CAMPAIGNS:THE CASE OF YOUNG PARTY IN 3TH NOVEMBER 2002 ELECTIONPolitical propaganda is the basis to convince the public to vote for a certain party. Parties still maintain their role in establishing communication, influencing networks, obtaining financial resources and providing volunteer support. Target audience should be mobilized using appropriate propaganda methods and persuaded to raise awareness.Commercial marketing techniques are used in political campaigns. Instead of adopting an ideological program, parties deploy strategies to win elections. Televisions are more vital in conveying messages than Newspapers and radios. The invention of internet has added another dimension to political propaganda. Accordingly, today's application areas for target audiences in written, printed and electronic media show a change in purpose.“Americanisation” is a concept applied to certain types, elements and professional activities in the election campaigns worldwide. Candidates, political parties, and news media are adopting US elections campaign practices. In this context, "Americanisation" in election campaigns accounts for the adaptation of many campaign methods and practices developed in the US to other countries.Since the 1980s, the economic, technological, and social changes introduced in the “American Style” affected elections globally including Turkey. This study will highlight the transformation process of the election campaign implemented by the Young Party in the general elections held on November 3, 2002, which is considered a "successful" example of Americanisation. Despite the differences in historical changes, socio-political cultures and institutional structures worldwide, the similarities observed with election campaigns will be mentioned. By taking Turkey as an example with Young Party, the political propaganda "Americanisation" will be evaluated regarding the impact and achievement of the election results.Key Words: Political Propaganda, Political Campaigns, Americanization, Young Party, 3th October 2002