Online Public Relations Thoughts

The President's choice for a Supreme Court Justice had a number of political symbols. Woman? Check. Minority? Check. Judge? Check. Appealing biography? Check. High probability of confirmation? Check. It was a shrewd move that cut down opposition before it had a chance to coalesce. There will be hard questioning, of course, because Republicans will make sure of it in confirmation hearings. It will be difficult for Republicans, however, to pursue scorched earth tactics. From a PR perspective, one must appreciate how carefully Obama built bases of support in his choice. He sent a message to voters and Republicans that he will take a popular course. There is as well an implied threat in his action. Don't underestimate him as a politician and leader.