Iowa Thunderdome: When Big Timing It Isn't Enough

I have had vague suspicions that the rock star antics of many primary candidates may play differently in different areas, and this excellent article shows us that Iowa may be a state where Big Timing can backfire.

Now, don't get me wrong. I'm not saying that filling up an arena is ever a bad thing. I do know, however, that Iowans are addicted to substance in their candidates, and have developed a generational, highly cultural tradition of having candidates for president in their living rooms and on their porches, no matter how big the candidate is. So, barring any arguments as to whether Obama or Clinton or Edwards are candidates of substance, it is safe to say that if you get off your bus with several dozen members of the media and an entourage of staff, it may be difficult to squeeze into someone's den for a discussion on agricultural policy.

Authenticity is not impugned by a large gaggle of hangers-on, and substance in your overall plan will remain whether you have pyrotechnics and roll with a backup band or not. It is always worth remembering, though, that in politics, perception is everything. If you are viewed as too big to be real, it may be how you end up being defined among some voter blocs.