Monday, May 26, 2008

Is Oprah Winfrey's Career in Danger?

Should celebrities and public figures endorse political candidates? How much of an effect do you think their political stances have on regular people? Apparently, they have quite an effect...but not in the way you might think.

According to this NY Times article, Oprah Winfrey's television show ratings fell 7% this year, possibly due to her endorsement of presidential candidate Barack Obama.

Some celebrities endorse candidates with the hope that they can spread the word, and raise the profile of that candidate, but Oprah's endorsement has actually hurt her career.

Not all of Oprah's fans are Democrats or Obama supporters and feel betrayed, as they have discussed on the show's message boards.

Oprah may have lost credibility by bringing her personal beliefs to the forefront.

Do you think candidates should publicly endorse candidates, or do you think they should keep their mouth's shut, and do their job?

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