Example of Symbols, Testimonial and Straw Man in Presidential General Election Ads

I identify three persuasive techniques from one election ad, Republican Majority Coalition – Dear Mr. Obama, not on purpose, but just recognize them.

The major images of this film are an American flag and a respected veteran from Iraq war with a prosthetic leg. The flag symbols the loyalty to the country. It reminds that every American should have this quality. The demobilized soldier conveyed a message beyond his words. Because he was there, lost his limb, he must know the “real” situation. His personal support to John McCain is a very persuasive argument to people. He also set up Obama’s argument as Iraq war is a mistake and disputed that people’s sacrifice is not a mistake. In this way, this film persuades people by making a connection between the loyalty to the country and the Republican government, and manipulates people’s feeling to against Barack Obama.

Other examples:

Example of Group Dynamics in “A Chance to Change the Game” by Barack Obama

Example of Repetition and Strength in “The War You're Not Reading About” by John McCain
--Conveying a message that American people can trust the Republican government in Iraq issue from many "for the first time".