Short Answer 
James D. Phelan’s campaign tactics included exaggerating threats related to crime and public safety, utilizing negative imagery to depict opponents unfavorably, and exploiting societal fears, particularly around civil rights and immigration, to rally support. These strategies aimed to create urgency and invoke anxiety among voters to sway them toward his agenda.
1. Exaggeration of Threats
James D. Phelan’s campaign tactics often relied on the exaggeration of threats related to crime and public safety. This approach involved portraying opposing candidates as being negligent toward crime issues, leveraging the fear that voters had about personal safety. By amplifying these threats, he aimed to create an urgent need for action among the electorate, making them more likely to support his agenda.
2. Use of Negative Imagery
Phelan effectively utilized negative imagery in his campaign strategies, similar to tactics seen in broader political contexts. By linking his opponents to dangerous situations or portraying them as untrustworthy figures, he instilled a sense of unease among voters. This strategy involved creating a visual narrative that depicted his rivals in a negative light, thereby influencing public perception through emotional appeal.
3. Exploiting Societal Fears
Another significant aspect of Phelan’s tactics was his ability to exploit societal fears, particularly concerning civil rights and immigration. He tapped into the anxieties of voters regarding social changes, using these fears to rally his supporters. By stressing the perceived threats to social stability and safety, he created a collective anxiety that mobilized people to align with his political vision and vote against his adversaries.