Prompt
In 2014, then Republican candidate Greg Abbott ran his first race for Texas governor against Democratic candidate Wendy Davis.
Compare and contrast the 2014 campaign videos by Gregg Abbott, a Republican, and Wendy Davis, a Democrat. Make sure to reference the ads in the essay.
VIDEO “Preserve Texas” Greg Abbot
• VIDEO: “A Texas Story” – Wendy Davis
1. How do the two ads represent Texas?
• Expand on what you learned in chapter 1. Consider symbols, images, tone, people shown, issues discussed etc.
2. How do the two ads show the difference in policy and values between the two parties? Are there any similarities shown? Explain.
• Expand on what you learned in chapter 4. Here are some examples of how you could think about these campaign ads.
• Consider the Republican party unity and disunity. Greg Abbott’s ad is a major shift away from previous Republican
governors tone. He reflects the rise of the Tea Party.
• The two campaign ads also retfect an urban, suburban and rural divide.
2. Elaborate on anything else you noticed and can tie into the topics covered in this course.
