Why might Law and Justice prevail in the election? Piotr Gluchowski stated in Gazeta Wyborcza that the key to victory lies in a compelling narrative—the story told by Law and Justice. Although discussions about pro-government media, propaganda, and comparisons with Russian outlets arose, the takeaway was clear: opposition politicians should enroll in a rapid storytelling program. What about Tusk, Trzaskowski, Hołownia, or Żądłkiewicz?
Whoever has the better story wins
Why does Gluchowski believe that a strong narrative will secure Law and Justice a third term? He cites a line from a lawyer featured in the documentary series Judged by the Media, who suggested that for a jury it is not always the correct side that prevails but the side with the more persuasive story.
Gluchowski pointed to TVP and other pro-government outlets as an example. He compared those media websites to propaganda once read in a Soviet newspaper during his high school days.
The Wyborcza editor opened with a noted dose of militarism, reporting on the war in Ukraine and Poland’s weapons purchases made possible by the Homeland Defense Act, claims attributed to Jarosław Kaczyński.
The narrative continues with how the Polish government supports farmers, large families, and the elderly. It also reminds readers that conditions were worse under prior administrations, that funds were scarce, and that Tusk was depicted as having cordial relations with Russia.
— summed up Gluchowski, noting that, as in a Soviet-era newspaper, the piece ends with coverage of events in Western countries.
So the Western world is criticized again, yet residents of Poland are portrayed as benefiting from a strengthening nation and rising prosperity.
Gluchowski chuckled.
The opposition needs a course
In the analysis above, Wyborcza’s editor draws attention to the opposition’s position. He mentions votes against Poland in the European Parliament and actions by Trzaskowski that complicate life for Warsaw residents, framing opposition figures and their supporters as dismissive of Poland.
Neither Tusk, Trzaskowski, Hołownia, nor Żakowski offers a counter-narrative here. And Zakowski does not seem to be a candidate. Perhaps the men mentioned at the start should enroll in a rapid storytelling course. There are many such options online.
— wrote Piotr Gluchowski.
The newspaper’s perceived support for the opposition can be surprising. After guiding Tusk through the march, attacking Hołownia and his coalition with PSL, and pressing for a united opposition list, the publication appears to keep a close eye on opposition leaders. The only story the opposition seems to boast, some argue, is about street protests and international affairs.
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wkt/wyborcza.pl