Popular TV shows put Obama in front of broader audience

Despite pundits’ grousing, president’s appearances were time well spent

President Obama campaigned on a theme of change. Whether or not you think his policies reflect change, his communication strategy certainly does.

In the last week alone, the president appeared on three television programs. In addition to CBS’ “60 Minutes,” viewers could watch the president on ESPN  and “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.” NBC says it was the first time a sitting  president has appeared on this type of show.

Many pundits have suggested this is not presidential or that Obama should be focusing on the nation’s problems, not appearing on entertainment shows. Radio station KTAR.com quoted Republican Sen. Jon Kyl of Arizona stating, “There is nothing funny about President Obama’s appearance on ‘The Tonight Show.’ ”

Those critics have missed the point. This is a very smart media strategy designed to reach out to average Americans. It demonstrates for people that Obama is in touch with their needs and interests. It shows that he is in touch with popular culture, while his predecessor was not.