B²: Is it too late now to say sorry?

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Repeat after us: “I’m sorry.”

Because the first 30 minutes of Sunday night’s debate focused only on the scandalous, it’s obvious that Trump, Clinton, and surrogates should reevaluate their crisis management strategies.

What doesn’t work? Dismissing the accusations, pivoting to another’s bad behavior to take the spotlight off your own, and/or lying. These strategies get you nowhere with undecided voters. With so many words and actions to apologize for between the two candidates, it seems like a lesson in how to say “I’m sorry” is applicable.

Good thing it’s Tuesday, B² day.

Here is this week’s likely media question and the B² (block and bridge) that sets the narrative straight:

Q: “What do you have to say about <insert scandal>?”

B² (if you’re the accused): “I made a mistake and sincerely apologize to the American people. But I assure you I’ve learned from the mistakes in my past and will do everything I can to prove that as president my words and actions will represent all people in this country.”

B² (if you’re speaking on behalf of the accused): “Donald Trump* made a mistake and sincerely apologized to the American people. When he says he’s learned from his mistakes and will do everything he can to prove that he’ll represent all people as president, I believe him.”

*Can be replaced with “Hillary Clinton”

Wherever you take the conversation next, make sure your statement includes an apology. If you made a mistake, admit it. Voters will forgive an indiscretion if you ask forgiveness rather than try to explain it away or cover it up. And if you’re speaking on behalf of someone who made a mistake, refer back to their apology. Just like the accused, you can’t dismiss (or make light of) the charges. It may not seem obvious in 2016, but honesty still counts for something.

B²: Say what?

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Though you might not wear a hearing aid now (or for a long time), you will have to wear an IFB in a satellite interview. Just like Stockdale’s hearing aid, the volume on your IFB may be turned down or it could malfunction. Either is possible, so you should be prepared to graciously answer the question you can’t hear instead of adopting a deer-in-the-headlights stare.

Good thing it’s Tuesday, B² day.

Here is this week’s likely media question and the B² (block and bridge) that sets the narrative straight:

Q: “<Insert muffled question you can’t hear>?”

B² (if you only hear a portion of the question): “I didn’t hear the entire question, but I think you asked about <insert issue>. My take is…<insert talking point>.”

B² (if you can’t hear anything): <Place your hand over the ear with the IFB> “Do you mind repeating the question? I’m struggling to hear you.”

Wherever you take the conversation next, remember the audience knows the only audio you have is via an ear piece. They will forgive you if you have to ask the reporter to repeat the question or if you have to admit that you only heard a portion and will answer as you want. These rules also apply if you do wear a hearing aid now and have trouble hearing the moderator or reporter. Just replace “IFB” with “hearing aid” in the above instructions and you’re all set.

B²: He Said, She Said

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A lot of people tuned in to witness Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton strike the careful balance between policy talk and entertainment television. Americans want to know where the candidates stand on the issues, but also demand a meme-able moment…or 7.

Last night delivered. With a one-on-one split screen that just wouldn’t quit, the candidates were on full display. And a non-existent moderator allowed both to trade unassisted monologues and attack each other without limitation.

If you find yourself in a similar situation, in a debate without a moderator to interrupt or apply a timeline, how do you defend yourself?

Good thing it’s Tuesday, B² day.

Here is this week’s likely media question and the B² (block and bridge) that sets the narrative straight:

Q: “<Insert Hillary’s attack on tax returns>.”

B²: “<Dismiss tax return claim and quickly pivot to Clinton Foundation>.”

Wherever you take the conversation next, very quickly discredit the claim and then attack your opponent. When Hillary mentioned Trump’s tax returns, the best response would’ve been to dismiss it and then attack her on the Clinton Foundation. A worthy attack he didn’t take advantage of, which seems to be the theme of the night…on both sides. In a debate, you always want to move from defense to offense. In. Every. Answer.

B²: Cough, Cough

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It doesn’t take a visit to WebMD to figure out that something is wrong with Hillary Clinton.

Despite the muddled and changing responses Clinton’s campaign has offered to explain her mysterious illness (illnesses?), one thing is certain – her health is now a news cycle of its own.

You will likely field questions about pneumonia, overheating, and/or seizures when asked by the media to address the 2016 political landscape, but don’t give in. You’re not a doctor, so don’t give a diagnosis.

If you have policy matters to discuss, DMG promises you can avoid sacrificing your interview time to address Clinton’s health concerns. How?

Good thing it’s Tuesday, B² day.

Here is this week’s likely media question and the B² (block and bridge) that sets the narrative straight:

Q: “Do you think voters should continue to worry about Hillary Clinton’s health getting in the way of her ability to perform presidential duties?”

B²: “It’s obvious Secretary Clinton is under the weather, so I first want to wish her a quick recovery. Voters do/don’t have a right to be concerned because… <insert talking point>.”

Wherever you take the conversation next – to approach Hillary’s health issues as a cover up or pivot to a policy unrelated to pneumonia – always show sympathy first by wishing her to better health.

Meeting emotion with emotion will not only prevent you from looking insensitive to the fact that she is struggling, but will give you credibility to bridge to what you want to talk about.

After all, despite the dozen Saturdays you’ve devoted to binge-worthy medical shows like Grey’s Anatomy, ER, or Scrubs, it’s best if you realize others may be more qualified than you to address bronchial issues.

B²: Aleppogate

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Everyone and their mother has chimed in on Gary Johnson’s very sincere inquiry: “And what is Aleppo?”

Some quickly rushed to his defense: 1) claiming Trump didn’t understand Brexit and/or 2) pointing out Johnson’s authenticity in not trying to cover up what he didn’t know. Others find it appalling that a man running for President of the United States didn’t recognize the center of the refugee crisis.

Regardless of your take on the Gary Johnson fiasco, we want to analyze the mistake and recommend a way forward for him and for you (if you should find yourself in a similar situation).

So, here’s what we can learn:

Admit when you’re wrong (ahem, Hillary Clinton). If you found Johnson’s question refreshing, you’re not alone. His sincere and forthright response demonstrated humility and transparency – rare qualities among politicians these days.

That said, he could’ve handled it better. So, for Gary Johnson, and everyone else who finds themselves in a similar situation, we have a suggestion or two.

Good thing it’s Tuesday, B² day.

Here is this week’s likely media question and the B² (block and bridge) that sets the narrative straight:

Q: “Insert question you don’t understand or haven’t been briefed on>?”

B²: “Whether it’s Aleppo or any other issue, we have to be thoughtful and approach with leadership. One way to do so is…<insert talking point>.”

Wherever you take the conversation next, give a vague answer hoping for further clarification OR admit the issue is outside your frame of reference. Both responses guarantee no harm, no foul.

B²: Safe Spaces

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In a world of political correctness, the college campus “safe space” is ground zero. We repeatedly read about suspensions for using the wrong gender pronoun, fines for serving tacos on campus, and bans on Christian and political conservative student groups, but the University of Chicago recently said “no more.”

WHAT.

In a strange twist of the headlines, the administration declared its campus a no safe space zone in the name of academic freedom.

Fingers crossed that Chicago’s bold move allows others to point out the absurdity of “safe spaces” and defend academic freedom. But how do you do so without seeming insensitive?

Good thing it’s Tuesday, B² day.

Here is this week’s likely media question and the B² (block and bridge) that sets the narrative straight:

Q: “Aren’t safe spaces and trigger warnings necessary to prevent discrimination on college campuses?”

B²: “Not at all. If we truly want to reduce discrimination, the best way to do so is to allow students to openly dialog and challenge those thoughts, not silence people and close off the conversation. That’s why we need to…<insert talking point>.”

Wherever you take the conversation next, highlight the fact that “safe spaces” are anything but. In fact, it is safer to allow the free flow of ideas on campus in order to truly understand other viewpoints and how best to engage. It’s a big, bad world out there, and learning to adjust and have a conversation about different ideas will only make the transition easier and society better. Do it for the kids.

B²: Free college for everyone!

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Round 2 of political conventions kicked off last night. Leading up to the DNC’s party in Philly, it was pretty easy to guess what topics the Dems might highlight – income equality, a woman’s right to choose, and #NeverTrump. But the email scandal revealed by Wikileaks has Hillary desperate to change the conversation and court Millennials – Bern’s biggest supporters.

Cue chants of FREE COLLEGE FOR EVERYONE!

In order to sway those diehard Millennials for Bernie, Hillary has to speak their language by propping up the causes they champion AS WELL AS creating distance between herself and the DNC emails.

Because Hillary will cheer loudly for “free” college this week, do you know how to project a voice of reason?

Good thing it’s Tuesday, B² day.

Here is this week’s likely media question and the B² (block and bridge) that sets the narrative straight:

Q: “What do you think about ‘free’ college?”

B²: “As we all know, free is never free. While we agree that college should be accessible and affordable for those who need a college degree to advance in their careers, the problems of ‘free’ college should be addressed. <Insert talking point>.”

Wherever you take the conversation next, reiterate that free is never free. Illustrate this point by citing monetary costs (obviously), but also opportunity costs. Yes, there will be an inevitable spike in the cash money each person owes (because someone has to pay for it!), but students will also suffer when their educational choices are diminished. College is good and necessary for some, but not for all. And those who don’t need a college education shouldn’t be punished via a larger tax bill to subsidize their fellow Millennial’s skip down Ivy League lane.

B²: Free Trade

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The GOP Convention is in full swing, which means this just got real.

Donald Trump is no stranger to media attention, but the next few days are especially important as he moves from presumptive to official nominee. Many wonder if his tone will change. Still others are crossing their fingers for a greater explanation of his policy positions, including his position on trade, which not only deviates from the standard Republican platform, but is now at odds with his own VP pick. #Awkward

As #MakeAmericaGreatAgain trends in Cleveland this week, how can you elevate the message of free trade without getting stuck in the mud?

Good thing it’s Tuesday, B² day.

Here is this week’s likely media question and the B² (block and bridge) that sets the narrative straight:

Q: “Donald Trump claims that America has made bad trade deals – is that true?”

B²: “That’s not accurate. While there is always room for better negotiation, free trade is a longstanding key to U.S. financial freedom as well as lifting other nations out of poverty. For example… <insert talking point>.”

Wherever you take the conversation next, highlight the importance of free trade for America and the world. Think: big picture. Whether you want to reference the increase in jobs and American manufacturing as a result of past trade deals (like NAFTA or the WTO), or focus on possible improvements to current trade deals, remain above the fray.

B²: #BlackLivesMatter vs. #BlueLivesMatter

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Only hours after celebrating America’s independence – a time of unity – we were alarmingly reminded of the division (politically and otherwise) that exists in this country. We witnessed tragedy in Minnesota, Louisiana, and Dallas…in less than 72 hours. Families lost loved ones and communities are without leaders, but the issues that sparked the violence only seem to be mounting as our Commander-in-Chief pivots to gun control as a remedy.

We need real solutions (like, yesterday).

As the media continues to cover the tragedies, you’ll likely be asked to comment on guns (see previous post) and the heightened racial tensions in this country. Do you know how to be sorrowful in your response while sticking to solutions that work? Because you need to do both.

Good thing it’s Tuesday, B² day.

Here is this week’s likely media question and the B² (block and bridge) that sets the narrative straight:

Q: “Do black lives matter?”

B²:“Yes. Every black person should be treated with dignity and their rights respected. The problem we face is complex – the events of last week highlight that police brutality exists and also the very real target police officers have become. To move forward, we must <insert talking point>.”

Wherever you take the conversation next, be measured and careful. There are two issues to address – police brutality and police protection. Whether it’s about rightly punishing the police officers who abuse power or protecting the police officers who justly serve, don’t let your response play into the media’s narrative. Address the tragedy and then pivot to your solution-based talking point. The media will exhaustively continue to analyze and speculate, so solutions are in high demand. Meet the emotion of the situation and then offer yours.

B²: Puerto Rico

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Thanks to Puerto Rico’s fiscal mess, Washington continues to live La Vida Loca at $19 trillion in debt.

On Thursday, President Obama signed a bill to bail out the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico. And on Friday, Puerto Rico defaulted.

With so many large numbers and wonky terms floating around, messaging on this debate might cue a snooze fest. Sad! But it’s important to talk about the default and the U.S. government’s response as it’s no longer Puerto Rico’s problem – it’s now the problem of every American family.

So, what’s the best way to communicate why this bill matters to every voter?

Good thing it’s Tuesday, B² day.

Here is this week’s likely media question and the B² (block and bridge) that sets the narrative straight:

Q: “Isn’t the bipartisan bill that President Obama signed to bail out Puerto Rico something we owe them as a U.S. territory?”

B²: “As Washington steps in to bail out Puerto Rico, states like CA, NJ, and IL will look for the same favor. With the U.S. at $19 trillion in debt…<insert talking point>…”

Wherever you take the conversation next, break down the impact this bill has on the average American family. At $19 trillion in U.S. debt, bailing out Puerto Rico not only makes that (already) astounding number larger, but sets a dangerous precedent that could have dire consequences. If Washington ignored the rules to help Puerto Rico, what’s to stop them from opening the wallet for other states that have failed to spend within their means?

The issue is no joke, and this new law only continues to grow our debt.