As the Republican and Democratic conventions wind down, what have we learned?  Other than a new word in our vocabulary, “Eastwooding,” referring to Clint Eastwood’s bizarre diatribe in a primetime performance during the Republican primary, not much.   Whether you were left wanting policy specifics from the Republicans, or left trying to cut through the rhetoric of the Democrats (are we better off today than we were four years ago?), the conventions were high on flash and short on content.  As usual.

And now comes the bashing!

Whether it’s online chatter or good old fashion advertising, we’re going to be deluged with ads and discussions about the merits of our various politicians, at local, state and national levels.

And the data is staggering. Take, for example, the 2,000,000 social comments (primarily Facebook and Twitter) from 10-11:30 during the three-day Republican National Convention.  That’s two million comments in four and a half hours!  Obviously a high point, but project out the comments that will be tweeted and posted over the next two months, and we’re looking at somewhere close to a two billion social comments. TWO BILLION!

Now, let’s talk about advertising.  Current estimates indicate that a record amount will be spent for the 2012 election cycle…around $5.8 billion, and perhaps more – even over $6 billion.

Personally, I’ve never been a fan of political advertising.   An outrageous amount of money is raised, and has to be spent, in support of a candidate. This year, PAC money is estimated to double vs. the 2008 cycle, so we can expect more egregious advertising than ever.

So, between two billion social media comments and $6 billion in advertising, if you thought you’d dodge the political discussion this fall, you’re sorely mistaken.  So sit back and let the wave of propaganda wash over you!  And, don’t forget to vote on Tuesday November 6^th.

Photo courtesy of The Hollywood Reporter