How does Joan Didion use imagery in Democracy?

Didion does not employ imagery, per se, she does, however, note that with the advent of television, genuine debate between political candidates was eventually wiped out, and image supplanted issues as the driving force in elections. Image as a deciding force was not new, of course; it had always been a factor, but television threw the whole process out of kilter. Victor is almost a caricature of this new,
image-centered politician, though the caricature is based upon actual persons.