Gloves Coming Off in SC1?

NOTE: Chris Drummond's quote has been added to this story after its initial publication.

In a seven week primary race with more than 20 contestants, candidates for the First Congressional District can afford to waste little time in distinguishing themselves from their rivals.

So, perhaps it was only a matter of time before so-called "push-polling" began. To clarify, the American Association of Public Opinion Research defines a "push poll" as "a form of negative campaigning that is disguised as a political poll. 'Push polls' are actually political telemarketing – telephone calls disguised as research that aim to persuade large numbers of voters and affect election outcomes, rather than measure opinions."

However, many campaigns also contact voters to improve their understsanding of how one candidate compares to another on a variety of issues. This tactic is occasionally referred to as "push-polling" by campaigns attempting to portray their rivals as a dirty campaigner.

According to the Washington DC-based website Real Clear Politics, voters in SC1 began receiving such calls this week.

As Real Clear Politics explains, the call asks voters for their opinions on "negative assessments" of Sen. Larry Grooms and Teddy Turner. It then asks voters if they are aware of Rep. Chip Limehouse's budget accomplishments in the Statehouse and fights against "Obama's agenda."

Next, the caller noted that Limehouse had helped to balance the state’s budget and would stand up for South Carolina against “Obama’s agenda.”

Turner's Campaign Advisor Chris Drummond told Patch:

"Negative tactics like push polling is what you would expect from a career politician. This is yet another example of why voters are frustrated with elected officials who use these kind of attacks during a campaign. On March 19th, voters will have a choice between career politicians--hopping from one political race to another, or someone like Teddy Turner who will bring fresh ideas to Washington and not be beholden to the good ole boys or special interest groups."

Senator Tom Davis (R-Beaufort), who has endorsed Mark Sanford in the race, called the practice of push-polling "obnoxious and deceptive" via Twitter.

John Vinson, Campaign Manager for Limehouse, told Patch:

"We have not, do not, and will not engage in push polling. But like every serious campaign we are engaged in scientific polling for research purposes. We are not going to comment further on the campaign's strategy, of which polling is an important part."

What are your thoughts on "push-polls?" Have you received any such calls?

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