a message for obama

Image by a.bellemare via Flickr

According to New York Magazine’s John Heilemann, who is speaking today at a Web 2.0 summit in San Francisco, the internet is responsible for Obama’s presidential victory.

Today’s summit began with Heilemann claiming that the internet played a disruptive role in the 2008 election, much the same way television played a major role in the 1960 election of John F. Kennedy. The internet is still relatively new now, as T.V. was back then, but both steered the election toward the victor. Kennedy relied heavily on television commercials throughout his campaign to reach the American voters directly.

The televised debate between John F. Kennedy and Richard M. Nixon was probably the most decisive event for the election of 1960. The growth of TV as a new medium, and declined use of radio marked a significant change in how campaigns are ran today. For the TV appearence, Nixon refused to wear make-up and therefore appeared unshaven, tired and sweaty under the lights. Kennedy, however, did wear the make-up and so appeared cooler and more composed than Nixon. Kennedy, before the debate, returned tan and attractive from vacation. Not only did Kennedy appear to be better groomed, and handsome, his suit was navy popping off the grey back drop. Nixon’s suit was grey, blending in to the curtain behind him. With these factors combined, Among TV viewers agreed, Kennedy won the debate. Richard Nixon’s deep, strong, radio appealing voice won over all radio listeners, they agreed Nixon won the debate. Nixon entered the race ahead of Kennedy. Television as a new medium changed presidential elections from this point on, marking the election of 1960 significant. Radio voice failed to prevail over now “candidate centered” television campaigns.

Believe it or not, Obama’s spots on YouTube amassed a total of 14.5 million viewing hours.  Over the course of this election, we have definitely seen our share of viral marketing tactics as well.

Thanks, Mister Wong!

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