The term "political massaging" is not a formally recognized political science term, but it generally refers to the strategic manipulation or careful presentation of political information, narratives, or policies to influence public opinion or the views of specific stakeholders. It's often associated with "spin doctoring" or public relations tactics in politics.

There are two primary interpretations of what "political massaging" might entail:

1. Spin Doctoring and Media Manipulation:

   • This involves shaping how news and events are reported and perceived by the public. The goal is to frame issues, policies, or actions in the most favorable light for a particular politician, party, or cause, while downplaying or deflecting criticism.

   • Methods include carefully crafting press releases, providing specific talking points to media, selectively leaking information, controlling access to politicians, and strategically using social media.

2. Subtle Influencing and Lobbying:

   • This can also refer to the discreet process of influencing decision-makers or key stakeholders through discussions, negotiations, and presentations, aiming to gradually shift their perspective or gain their support for a policy or agenda.

   • It involves building relationships, presenting data in a compelling way, addressing concerns, and finding common ground, often behind the scenes.

The "actors" involved in political massaging are diverse and play various roles, both as those performing the "massaging" and those who are targets of it:

• Politicians and Elected Officials: They are often the primary beneficiaries or orchestrators of political massaging, seeking to maintain popularity, pass legislation, or win elections.
• Political Parties: Parties develop overarching narratives and strategies to promote their agenda and candidates.
• Political Staffers and Advisors: This includes press secretaries, communications directors, policy advisors, and campaign managers who are directly responsible for crafting messages and executing strategies.
• Spin Doctors and Public Relations Firms: These professionals specialize in managing public perception and are often hired by politicians, parties, or advocacy groups.
• Lobbyists: They engage in direct communication with policymakers to influence legislation and policy, often employing persuasive techniques that could be considered "massaging."
• Think Tanks and Advocacy Groups: These organizations produce research and analysis, and then strategically disseminate it to influence public and political discourse in favor of their causes.
• Media Outlets and Journalists (as conduits/targets): While journalists aim for objectivity, they can be influenced by political messaging, either by amplifying specific narratives or by being strategically fed information.
• Voters and the Public (as targets): The ultimate goal of much political massaging is to influence public opinion and voting behavior.
• Donors and Special Interest Groups: These groups may engage in massaging to protect their interests or advance specific agendas by influencing political actors.

Political massaging is a fundamental, though sometimes controversial, aspect of modern politics, reflecting the constant struggle to control narratives and sway opinions.