Politics and Web 2.0

The presidential candidates for 2008 would certainly be remiss to ignore the emerging Web technologies as they campaign and raise money to become the next president of the United States and as you might have guessed, most of them are NOT ignoring it. Here are some cool examples of how the candidates are using these tools to their advantage:

• John Edwards’ Pecan Pie Video on YouTube — The John Edwards campaign has smartly come up with a video that is funny and clever that they’ve posted on YouTube and on his Web site. It features two aides attempting to make Edwards’ favorite pie for his birthday. The best part: Contribute to his campaign and get the recipe for yourself.
• Barack Obama’s Social Networking site My.BarackObama.com — Here you can join other Obama supporters by joining groups (for example, Students for Barack Obama or Women for Barack Obama, or by geographic area), find or plan an event, start a blog, track funds you are able to raise and more.
• Rudy Guliani’s Blog Widgets — A selection of support banners you can post on your blog that includes a running ticker of how much various people have donated to the campaign.
• Mitt’s Online Video Channel — Click here to view a variety of channels with Romney’s TV interviews, hear him address key issues and even a total online show where you can “Ask Mitt Anything” (you post questions into a chat box online). Of course, you can subscribe the channels via RSS feed, too.
• John McCain’s Daughter’s (and friends) Blog — These three women are traveling with McCain and offer firsthand accounts of their experiences along the way. A great way to hit the younger demographic.

So, as you can see, there’s no shortage here of creativity and use of these tools. Howard Dean started the Internet revolution last time around to raise funds and the 2008 candidates are taking it to even greater heights.