Minnick Raises the Bar With New Media Campaign

News Release

By Walt Minnick Campaign - February 29, 2008

Having set the pace for fundraising and organization, the Minnick campaign is now raising the bar with its netroots outreach.

It has been three months since Walt Minnick announced his candidacy for Congress in the 1st District of Idaho. In that time Minnick has raised more than any other candidate in the state and his staff has organized a grassroots campaign that spreads across the district. Minnick is now planning to take a grassroots approach to his media plan.

“Our grassroots organization is spreading across the district, now we’re spreading our netroots,” said Minnick. “I suppose that makes sense for a guy in the garden business.”

In addition to launching Walt TV on YouTube, the Minnick campaign actively blogs and updates a profile on Facebook. This year’s Frank Church Banquet will feature candidate videos in addition to speeches.

Netroots, a term used to describe political activism organized through blogs, wikis, social networking and other online media, is fast becoming a force in politics. Markos Moulitsas, keynote speaker at this year’s Franck Church Banquet, is a prime example of how netroots has changed the modern political landscape. Moulitsas is the founder of the influential political blog the Daily Kos and author of Crashing the Gate: Netroots, Grassroots, and the rise of People-Powered Politics.

Minnick noted, “Markos is an excellent choice for this year’s banquet. The Daily Kos reflects the changing nature of politics and the increasing role of the Internet. I look forward to hearing his insights on the medium.”

With the rising popularity of cable, TiVo and satellite, network television doesn’t enjoy the same audience it once had. Fewer people listen to the radio now than ever before. Mailings are becoming obsolete. Telephone calls can be a nuisance.

The Internet is becoming the most effective tool for reaching voters.

Minnick notes, “I’ve been in business since the late 60’s. I’ve seen computers get smaller, faster, more efficient and affordable. I’ve witnessed technology change the face of business, education and politics. My aim is to reach as many folks in Idaho as possible. The Internet helps do that. As a candidate, I have the opportunity to reach out in a different way and connect with people on a level beyond a written speech or tv ad.”

Minnick pointed to the strong netroots campaign of Barack Obama and the over one million people who have donated to him online.

Locally, Idaho boasts a host of politically oriented blogs such as Red State Rebels, 43rd State Blues, PaleoMedia, Huckleberries Online, New West, Eye on Boise, and The Mountain Goat Report.

Advanced copies of Minnick’s Frank Church Banquet video are available for preview. Minnick will be available Friday and Saturday for comment. He is also hosting a hospitality suite Saturday from 6 to 7pm at the Double Tree Riverside.