Final answer:
The term for when the news media affects the criteria with which we evaluate political figures is 'priming.' It predisposes audiences to judge leaders based on issues highlighted by the media, which can also engage in agenda setting to shape public discourse.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term for when the news media affects the criteria with which we evaluate candidates or elected leaders is d. priming. When the media covers certain topics extensively, it predisposes the audience to a particular perspective on a subject or issue. This priming means that if the coverage is slanted towards emphasizing certain aspects of public life, like crime or unemployment, audiences are more likely to judge political leaders based on these criteria. Besides priming, the media also engages in agenda setting, which is the process of choosing which issues are presented to the public, thus shaping the conversation around them.
For example, an agenda setter might highlight stories about national security and terrorism, putting this topic at the forefront of the public's mind. If these issues are consistently covered, they will likely be a major factor in how the public gauges a leader's effectiveness. Such agenda setting can have a significant impact on governance and campaigns, influencing what the president and congress consider important to voters.