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Sweden Today

Swedish news in English

Thursday, November 7, 2024

Swedish Politicians Eye U.S. Campaign Tactics

Published: 2024-11-03

Swedish politicians are increasingly looking to the United States for inspiration in political campaigning, despite skepticism about the applicability of American methods in Sweden.

Leaders from various Swedish parties have traveled to the U.

S. to observe the presidential election, hoping to glean insights.

However, experts like Marie Grusell from Gothenburg University argue that cultural and political differences make it challenging to implement these strategies effectively in Sweden.

Historical attempts, such as the Moderates' efforts to emulate John F.

Kennedy in 1968, have often fallen flat.

Political analyst Billy McCormac suggests that while Swedish campaigns might benefit from the personal branding seen in the U.

S., they must remain rooted in Swedish culture.

The focus, he believes, should be on defining political identities and opponents rather than mimicking American styles.

Meanwhile, Sweden has sent 20 observers to the U.

S. to monitor the election, highlighting the importance of transparency and international oversight in democratic processes.