This chapter develops a comprehensive model of metaphor effects within the domain of political communication and political cognition. We begin by considering the nature and prevalence of metaphor commonly appearing in political rhetoric. We then provide an overarching theoretical perspective that conceptualizes metaphoric political rhetoric as a form of political framing. This metaphoric framing model posits that a communication or situational cue initially activates a root metaphor in the mind of the message recipient. This root metaphor contains an image, central theme, or storyline that is associated with the political entity, event, or issue being described. This metaphoric image influences the message recipient's attitudes and opinions regarding the event or issue. The psychological nature of this influence is presumed to be multifaceted, encompassing a variety of mediating psychological