Dec 11, 2008 9:46 pm US/Central
Kodak Moments Can Haunt Politicians
Some Democrats May Find That Photographs With Blagojevich Can Be Used To Their Disadvantage
CHICAGO (CBS) ―
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Some Illinois Democrats, such as Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, are probably gritting their teeth over "photo ops" with Gov. Rod Blagojevich, who faces federal corruption charges.
CBS
You could call it "The Blagojevich Effect." Images of politicians seen being "friendly" with the governor could come back to haunt them. CBS 2's Vince Gerasole takes a look at the power of pictures.
There they are, innocently linking arms at the State Fair -- some of Illinois' leading Democrats flanking Gov. Blagojevich.
And remember how we laughed at the Democratic National Convention when Blagojevich hugged rival House Speaker Mike Madigan? Then, a few seconds later, Congressman Jessie Jackson Jr.?
But few are laughing at these images now.
"If a picture is worth a thousand words, a picture with a disgraced figure can be priceless to the opposition," Democratic media consultant Eric Adelstein said.
He has made the most of these kinds of awkard photos. With the aid of a guilt-by-association shot of President Bush and Congressman Mark Kirk in 2006, Adelstein helped define newcomer Dan Seals with a credible debut.
"Dan didn't win that race, but he surprised everyone by coming very close. "
Days ago, Barak Obama shook hands with Blagojevich at a governor's conference, and Democratic Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky stood beside him during a visit to the capital.
"This is something that is undoubtedly going to be used," said Republican media consultant Dan Proft.
Still, Proft says the pictures need meaning. A polka between candidate Judy Baar Topinka and scandal-plagued Gov. George Ryan proved damaging because of her connection to in his administration. The same scrutiny will affect those who've stood next to Blagojevich.
"If you can connect the picture to a substantive relationship with the governor, given his current predicament and likely future, it's going to be a powerful political tool," Proft said.
Consultants caution not to underestimate the intelligence of voters, who can tell the difference between a casual photo and a long standing relationship.
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