McCain Ad - "Stand"

This is a good example of bandwagon jumping and common person, as well as testimonials (whew!). This was aimed at younger people, a body of voters that McCain did not have a good grip on. They talk about different topics that they support McCain in, but most seem like glittering generalities (I stand for Health Care Reform.... ok...what about it?)

While it uses many of the techniques we've seen in class I don't find it an effective ad. Sure, it's colorful and feels young,but we never see the face of the man they stand for, or even his voice approving the young people's endorsement. It doesn't hit any specifics on his policy.

Pretty colors are energetic music are just not enough these days...

2008 Obama Ad - Plan for Change

This ad brings us back from the many smear and negative campaign ads to talk about actual policy. It focuses on what Obama propose to give the middle class and appeals to our wallets. Of course, he is probably card stacking and talks about the things that will help keep money in people's pockets, but he is open about people going to his website and reading the plan. He isn't trying to hide anything. A great link between his tv ads and his internet based campaign efforts.

NRSC Ad - Jim Martin Fact #16

First off I want to say this is a well made ad, graphically. It's dynamic, fun, and just looks dandy, especially for a smear ad.

Here we see card stacking against Jim Martin from Georgia in his ongoing campaign for senate. It also utilizes clips from his own ads, perhaps out of context, to sass us a little.

This is an effective ad that grabs our attention and could easily convince a red state like Georgia not to vote for him.

Free Coffee!

Yum!

I like this ad. It appeals to people's sense of patriotism and caring, and I do think the message carries through. Some might says it's Starbucks bribing people to vote, but I see it more of a reward and an incentive for a people that are disillusioned with their government to take a stand and utilize one of their biggest right to change it.

I am pretty sure this got a good deal of people to booths, just as much as it did to Starbucks shops. Good for the country, but even more so good for their business! As propaganda it serves its purpose well.

Chuck Norris Approved

Talk about celebrity endorsements!

Huckabee has a good sense of humor. Here he uses transfers and testimonials from famous action hero, Chuck Norris, as well as comically reminding us how kick-ass Chuck Norris is. And if someone so kick ass endorses him, shouldn't we?

While there is little talk about policy, this is a refreshing ad that is sure to make people smile. The question is, do we need a funny leader right now? I am sure Huckabee had other ads to contrast this funny one, talking about his policies, and probably others slamming the other candidates (cause we always need those).

Is it effective? It might sway some young voters and get a chuckle from people that will already vote Huckabee, but I doubt this would get him a big advantage over others.

And it didn't..