In the 2008 campaign season, smear campaigns have been used as political tactics against both Democratic and Republican candidates. While this phenomenon is nothing new, the Internet is making the tactic easier and the problem more widespread. Some smears originate directly from campaigns, while others are more difficult to track down after the damage is done. The candidates take these rumors seriously, taking time in nationally broadcasted debates to address smears and devote websites to debunking falsehoods. In the 2008 race Democratic candidate Barack Obama and Republican candidate John McCain have both felt the brunt of multiple, unfounded smear campaigns, yet the lies and rumors on the "misinformation superhighway" do not seem to sway voters against these candidates.

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Web-Extended Interview: Rod Shealy

EXTERNAL LINKS

POLITIFACT.COM: Analysis of attacks and statistics

MEDIA MATTERS: Media Matters for America