The influence of politicians and political strategists on society cannot be ignored. It’s crucial for educators to discuss their role in shaping politics and policy. One such public figure is Sean Spicer, the former White House Press Secretary under President Donald Trump. Teaching students about Spicer can provide an opportunity to explore communication, political strategies, and the unconventional aspects of the Trump administration.
1. Background Information
Start by providing students with background information about Spicer, including his early life, education, and political career. Born in 1971, Spicer is a graduate of Connecticut College and has also attended the Naval War College. He began his career as a communications staffer for members of Congress before joining the Republican National Committee (RNC) as its communications director in 2011. Spicer later became the White House Press Secretary from January to July 2017.
2. Roles and Responsibilities
Discuss the roles and responsibilities of a White House Press Secretary – their primary function is to act as a spokesperson for the President and communicate with various media outlets. This includes daily press briefings, crafting strategic messaging, and ensuring accuracy when addressing questions from journalists.
3. Controversial Moments
Spicer’s tenure as White House Press Secretary was marked by several controversial moments, such as falsely claiming that Trump’s inauguration crowd was larger than that of Barack Obama’s in 2009. This incident sparked conversations about “alternative facts” and patterns of misinformation within political communication. Encourage students to explore these moments, critically analyze them, and discuss how they impacted public perception of politics.
4. Media Perception
Sean Spicer frequently clashed with journalists during press conferences, leading many critics to challenge his professional conduct and credibility. Moreover, his frequent misstatements were dubbed as “Spicerisms.” Discuss these events with your students to encourage a conversation on media ethics and how different communication styles can impact an audience.
5. Life After the White House
Spicer’s transition from politics to his new endeavors, such as participating in Dancing with the Stars, can provide an interesting case study on career pivots and public image rehabilitation. Have students consider what his post-press secretary pursuits say about media and public perception.
Conclusion:
Teaching students about Sean Spicer is an engaging way to explore various issues related to political communication and public relations. By understanding Spicer’s career trajectory, controversial moments, and media interactions, students can more thoroughly comprehend the influence that political strategists have in shaping our world.
