Linda McMahon wore blueeeeee velvetttttt…

During the 2010 U.S. Senate race a political consultant or an advertising guru (I can’t remember who) contacted me with an observation – Linda McMahon and her U.S. Senate campaign made excellent use of the color blue.

Blue, this person said, is one of those colors folks in the industry use to manipulate consumers/voters into feeling really good about a product/politician.

Google “blue” and “advertising” or “politics” and you’ll find plenty of supporting evidence. Here’s one example. Here’s another.

One excerpt: “Blue is considered beneficial to the mind and body. It slows human metabolism and produces a calming effect. Blue is strongly associated with tranquility and calmness. In heraldry, blue is used to symbolize piety and sincerity.”

McMahon, a Republican, wore other colors on the campaign trail but blue outfits during the televised debates with Democratic opponent Richard Blumenthal…

I had completely forgotten about that brief 2010 conversation with the aforementioned political consultant/advertising guru until McMahon, who is seeking the 2012 GOP Senate nomination, released this new advertisement…

WOW! Hear her story AND look into those deep blue eyes… So calming. So sincere. Must cast vote for Linda…

Wait. Where was I? Oh, sorry. That’s right – colors and political candidates.

Perhaps McMahon has always gravitated toward blue. But if her campaign handlers didn’t think it appealed to voters, you can be sure she wouldn’t wear it as often.

Recently ABC News reported on the GOP presidential contenders’ colors of choice during the primary debates.

So the next time you see a candidate in a political advertisement or in a public appearance, don’t just worry about being manipulated by their words.

Brian Lockhart