SocialSphere Strategies

I am spending this week in Denver with the Democrats, next week Jonathan will be in Minneapolis/St. Paul with the Republicans. The main purpose of our visit is to conduct briefings for the media and others on the impact and attitudes of the 25.5 million potential young (18-24) year olds in the election. The first briefing was held yesterday afternoon at the Brown Palace Hotel -- the event was kicked off with spirited remarks by Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick. For many, the story of the event was news from our most recent Harvard IOP youth poll that Senator Obama has maintained a solid 20-point lead over John McCain, 55%-22% -- with 13 percent undecided. As important, if not more, were the findings that nearly two-thirds of young people are excited about the campaign this fall -- and 47% are ready to volunteer in some way if asked or engaged by the campaigns. These numbers are similar to our other findings from the last few years. The bottom line is that for both the Obama and McCain campaigns -- there are hundreds of thousands (if not more) young people willing to step out and help their cause. Some need just a hand, an idea, a task, a little help. For them, politics is new, but worth engaging in if a few of the remaining barriers can be overcome. The Obama campaign will be putting 76,000 volunteers to work Thursday night before the Senator's acceptance speech and the convention close by Bruce Springsteen. They are organizing a massive 2.0 version of a voter contact campaign. So, we know what Obama is doing. We will report on McCain's activities next week. What are you doing? I can almost guarantee you that your company, brand or cause also has thousands of supporters and activists who would get involved if asked. Go ahead. Ask them. More »