There are Fourth of July parades taking place all across Michigan today.
In addition to the numerous marching bands and Boy Scout troops, many parades will feature politicians.
Bill Ballenger is the editor of Inside Michigan Politics. With the August primary a month away, he says Independence Day parades give many politicians a chance to connect with voters, even if it’s a fleeting connection.
“They like to shake hands…kiss babies….wave…have people wave back to them. Nothing offers that opportunity as much as a good old fashioned 4th of July parade,” says Ballenger.
Ballenger says politicians love the exposure they get from being in parades, though he adds he knows of no evidence that shows that parade appearances actually help them connect with voters.
