reallife

How does all of this theory

apply to REAL life?

To examine this question, let's take a look at the current preparations for the Fall 2000 Presidential election. Candidates are currently looking for volunteers to aid them in their endeavors. One of these endeavors is to do well in the straw-poll this coming February. A straw-poll does not necessarily mean the candidate will finish well in the Iowa and New Hampshire primaries, but it does help where publicity/media coverage is concerned. Additional coverage in the media will help get the candidate's name out so that more people will recognize him and support him. Currently, Texas Governor George W. Bush seems to be the early front-runner.
Also, the Iowans can make or break a candidate's prospects as he travels to New Hampshire. The small group of people who votes strongly influences which candidates will go on. A candidate needs to obtain the support of these elites to show caucus leaders that he is the choice of the people. Ultimately, it will be the opinion of the general public, as well as that of the political elites, though, that determine whether or not the candidate is elected into office.
The US Mint has decided to start making Susan B. Anthony dollars again due to the public's heavy demand. The coin is popular because vending machines, Postal Sevice stamp dispensers and subway systems are now accepting them. This example shows that when public opinion is strong enough; the government will respond.

Another current topic that may have some repercussions in public opinion is John Kasich's plan to unveil a new Social Security overhaul. He says baby boomers will have to make some "sacrifice" which may cause an uproar in this group if it is approved.