The May 14, 1950 Elections in the Context Of Political Communicatıon Management and Election Campaigns

Abstract

This study focuses on the evaluation of the 1950 general elections in the context of political communication and election campaigns. The primary aim of the research is to analyze, through the lens of political communication, the impact of election campaigns on voter behavior by examining the general elections held on May 14, 1950, and to reveal the role of political communication strategies in the process of gaining power.

In this study, a qualitative research method was adopted, and data were collected through document analysis. The relevant literature, period sources, and similar materials were reviewed, and the data obtained through document analysis were examined using content analysis techniques. Based on the findings, an evaluation and inference on the subject were made.

According to the findings, during this period, the Democrat Party effectively capitalized on the public’s weariness from the long-standing single-party rule of the Republican People's Party (CHP) and the unfavorable conditions of the era. By managing an effective political communication process, the Democrat Party was able to end the CHP's single-party rule. The election campaign conducted by the Democrat Party in these elections was so influential that it left a lasting impression. The slogan that marked the campaign, "Enough! The nation speaks," had a significant impact and played a key role in the Democrat Party’s rise to power through a successful political communication strategy.

These elections were held under judicial supervision and in accordance with the principles of secret voting and open counting and tabulation, which made them significantly more transparent and reliable compared to the controversial 1946 elections. In addition, radio broadcasts were utilized, the press was effectively employed, and the importance of mass communication tools was demonstrated