KYL, GIFFORDS, REDISTRICTING AND ONE MORE FACTOR

posted by Michael Chihak

President Obama may choose to target Arizona in his 2012 re-election campaign, and if so, that will add greatly to the already unusual dynamic in the state, a University of Arizona political communications expert says.

Communication Professor Kate Kenski said for Friday's Arizona Week on PBS HD that Obama's tactic in Arizona is likely to be different than in 2008, when he withdrew resources because he faced running against John McCain on McCain's turf.

That won't be the case next year, and if Obama pours some of his expected wealth of resources into the state, it could have an influence on races up and down the ballot -- Senate and Congress, Kenski said.

She said all the factors make for unusual circumstances, and would-be candidates should be focusing on grassroots organizing, putting together their campaign structures and essentially remaining somewhat low key to prevent voter burnout.

The media, too, should stay away from speculation, although it is tempting, instead focusing on current issues and then giving a thorough accounting of candidates and issues once candidates begin lining up for the races.

Her interview can be seen on PBS HD at 8:30 p.m. MST Friday and online at azweek.com.