Question

impact media plays on elections
the bully pulpit
the media and money
media is a critical factor in running a successful campaign. as a result, politicians nationwide spend vast sums of money advertising their campaigns.

• 2016 costs of media campaigns:
• presidential campaigns spent $2.6 billion on media.
• all federal campaigns spent a combined $6.5 billion
• the average u.s. house race spent $500,000 in advertising
• the average u.s. senate campaign spent $1.5 million

as a result, the ability to fundraise or pay for necessary media exposure can determine who has realistic odds of achieving federal office. costs are high, often stopping many potential candidates or regular citizens from ever running
bully pulpit
some incumbents, or politicians already in office, are public figures whose position demands media attention. this can provide them a power known as the “bully pulpit,” which offers free influence

• incumbents may lay blame for failures at the feet of their opponents.
• the other party might be accused of refusing to compromise.
• issuing statements gives the appearance of productivity and transparency, which can win votes

which of the following is often used by the incumbent to shame the other party?

• political rallies
• press conference
• bully pulpit

Explanation:

The text defines the "bully pulpit" as a tool for incumbents (office-holding politicians) that provides free media influence, including laying blame on opponents and accusing the other party of refusing to compromise—actions that align with shaming the other party. Political rallies and press conferences are not specifically linked to this targeted shaming behavior in the provided material.

Answer:

bully pulpit