RNC Will Use 'Fear' Campaign for Big Donors

The Republican National Committee plans to hit up major donors with a campaign based on fear of Barack Obama and impending Socialism, writes Ben Smith at Politico. He got hold of a confidential presentation by the RNC's finance director, which points out how "ego-driven" donors can be coaxed into opening their wallets through promises of access and "tchochkes." In general, the 72-page document treats donors with an "air of disdain," writes Smith.

"What can you sell when you do not have the White House, the House, or the Senate...?" asks one PowerPoint page. Answer: "Save the country from trending toward Socialism!” In another about the "Evil Empire," Obama is depicted as the Joker, Nancy Pelosi as Cruella DeVille, and Harry Reid as Scooby Doo. Says Smith: "Manipulating donors with crude caricatures and playing on their fears is hardly unique to Republicans ... but rarely is it practiced in such cartoonish terms." (More Republicans stories.)