With Barack Obama and John McCain now in full battle mode, I thought it would appropriate to take a look at some online metrics and make some comparisons to how each is using the internet to help their campaign. In the lead up to the election, I will post my findings and observations.

Some topic areas that I will likely include are:

• Search volume relating to each candidate in key “battle ground” states
• How they are using search
• Analysis of their Websites
• Analysis of their involvement with social media
• Other areas that seem appropriate as we move close to the election

One quick observation is how they have each reacted to hurricane Gustav. The republican convention scaled back the schedule of events and speakers on the day the hurricane hit. Instead, they focused on its potential impact and the states that could be affected. McCain’s team also made sure to give it prominent placement on their homepage and highlight speeches that were given by Cindy McCain and Laura Bush.

Not to be outdone, the Obama team has put up a splash page that has temporarily replaced their homepage. It calls for individuals to make a donation to those affected by Gustav.

So, even in times of tragedy the candidates are jockeying to show American citizens that they are in tune with the needs of those that have been affected and are working to help provide relief. And, this is just the beginning of what is sure to be a nasty battle in the coming months.

Filed under: Analytics, General Marketing, Off Topic, PPC, SEO, Social Marketing on Thursday, September 4th, 2008 by Nate Linnell |
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