Tom Tancredo Stumbles On an Effective Campaign Strategy

In National Public Radio's December 10 story about the previous night's debate, a Republican presidential candidate forum in Miami sponsored by Univision, Tom Tancredo was mentioned first. How did the double T pull off this long-awaited coup? By not showing up -- ostensibly because appearing at such a "Spanish-speaking" event...

By Michael Roberts

December 10, 2007

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In National Public Radio's December 10 story about the previous night's debate, a Republican presidential candidate forum in Miami sponsored by Univision, Tom Tancredo was mentioned first. How did the double T pull off this long-awaited coup? By not showing up -- ostensibly because appearing at such a "Spanish-speaking" event would have constituted "pandering."

Finally -- a way for Tancredo to separate himself from the pack. If he simply stops campaigning entirely, imagine how much publicity he'll get. -- Michael Roberts

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Michael Roberts began his career with Westword in 1990 as music editor. In 1999, he took on a new role, full-time media reporter, as author of a column called The Message. In 2008, he became the lead writer for Westword's news blog, The Latest Word, a position he held until January 2023. Michael continues to freelance for Westword, covering everything from business to sports and the media; he also contributes to Jazziz, a national music magazine. He holds a bachelor's degree from what is now Colorado Mesa University and master's degrees from the University of California, Los Angeles, and Northwestern University.

Contact: Michael Roberts

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