Frame on Potential DeLay Dismissal- "technicality" {w/ poll}
Mon Nov 21, 2005 at 07:14:54 PM PDT
As you may have seen, there are some reports that Tom DeLay's case may be thrown out of court tomorrow.
http://hotlineblog.nationaljournal.com/...
Given Scanlon's plea bargain, even if this happens DeLay's evading the bullet will probably be temporary. However, in the meantime we should pushback with our own frame. No wallowing, people! My suggestion for that frame would be "DeLay gets off on a technicality."
There are several reasons why I believe this is a good frame:
1. The "technicality" frame is one that is already well-known in the public.
A. Many cop/lawyer shows, like the Law and Order franchise, will use a "technicality" as a plot device.
B. Conservatives have repeatedly used against liberals (mostly in terms of criminal law as well---like the suspect who had his confession coerced by threats to his family having that confession thrown out "on a technicality.
C. The frame was recently used by conservatives in regard to the Libby case, claiming that perjury was "a technicality."
- It is a clear and simple statement which requires no elaboration. To respond, conservatives will be in the position that we often find ourselves in---trying to explain complex positions.
- It furthers the idea of DeLay as a devious and manipulative figure who twists the rules to his advantage.
- It suggests that the essence of the charges were true. If we do not adopt a frame for this, conservatives will almost certainly try a pushback on Ronnie Earle and try to translate that into a "liberals on a PC witch-hunt" type of frame.
- It'll be true. He managed to get this case in front of a Republican judge, and if this is the decision, the judge will have sided with party over due process.
Other potentially helpful subframes/comments:
"In this case, when justice came for DeLay, justice was denied." (or some variation of "Justice DeLayed was justice denied").
"Tom DeLay once again demonstrated his ability to avoid responsibility and accountability for his crimes. Apparently, that ability is a must for all conservative politicians."
