Manipulating Language to the Masses

’Tis the season when political candidates jockey for position and creatively manipulate (or mangle) the English language (Yiddish, if you’re Michele Bachmann) in an effort to sound smart, connect with the public and lead voters to the polls.

This calculated discourse crosses both sides of the aisle. It was evident last night during the Republican presidential debate and we'll see more of it tonight during President Obama’s speech to Congress on job growth.

I’m not criticizing. Really. As a professional communicator, I find it quite fascinating.

I recognize that words have power. I know it's important to use words with purpose.

But at what point do these words and nonverbal gestures become so over-orchestrated that they lose their power? Or better yet, can candidates who are so media trained, scripted and coached to death still come off real and connect with real people?

Yes. And apparently, they hire guys like this: political consultant and pollster Frank Luntz.