Presidential Election and the Internet

As I reflect back on the last year worth of politicing for the Presidency, I can't help but think about how the Internet played such a big role. We continue to talk about how the uses of the Internet have changed over the last 2 years but how it changed this election is amazing to me. Even though I saw the same bombardment of television ads as previous campaigns I couldn't go on the Internet without seeing an Obama banner ad or article about his campaign.

Looking at how the Obama campaign targeted the youth is a great lesson in social media. They looked at where thier "consumers" were and went to them. The campaign gave the voters a forum to voice their opinions and they listened. I couldn't go to a social networking site without seeing someone write something about Obama or his campaign.

When I registered to vote almost 20 years ago never did I think this was where campaigns and elections would end up. Future politicians and political parties need to step back and take a look at what has been accomplished and learn from our next Presidents campaign. If you don't make changes you will get left in the microdust.

Get out and vote!

I'm writing this not to give you my political view or persuade you to vote for any specific candidate. It is to remind you that voting is always important. Stick with me for a minute and you will understand why I feel it's important to vote.

Last year I ran for re-election to retain my seat on the Shelbyville City Council. On Election Day my election was a tie; yes that's right 345 for me and 345 for my opponent. After a recount the numbers were still the same. In the end of a very long and emotionally draining court battle absentee votes were thrown out by the Shelby County court and the Appellate Court upheld the decision and I lost 336-330 (if you would like know why the absentee ballots were thrown out let me know; another story in itself). Now come on no one likes to lose but after you have spent 4 years being a public servant and representing citizens in your community it is hard to hear a court say you have to step down. I occasionally have my moments where I can't help but think if 1 more person would have come out I could have won (although I would have needed 7 more since the absentee ballots were disqualified).

We live in country where voting is something that is taken for granted by far too many people. Most citizens feel that voting in the Presidential Election is important and the turn out is usually decent every 4 years usually between 50%-60%. But don't forget you have other candidates on the ballots too. Use this election as a time to start a new important habit for your city, county, state and nation. We have the privilege, duty and right to elect those that represent us...please get out and vote!