Prior to casting your vote what do your favorite local candidates (or his/her competition) know about you? 

For years, prior to the Internet, data was somewhat difficult to obtain. Of course, candidates had access to voting history, not whom you voted for, but, at least, enough information to determine if you are a likely voter. But now, ever since you have allowed your fingers to do your online shopping, browsing and talking, data has exploded. There’s data from social media, online purchases and so much more. 

How important is the media consultant in the elections campaign? Does it make a difference if the election is for a major statewide office or a parochial position of power? Who calls the shots? How dependent is the candidate upon the advertising firm, the public relations persons? What qualities should a candidate or campaign manager consider when hiring the person who might create the ads, the TV spots, the Internet buys? What if the campaign goes into crises mode, who do you call, what do you do?