Emotion is what makes us human.
Effective advertising taps into that power.
The spot above highlighted a critical issue in the race for Iowa’s first congressional district: protecting Iowan’s preexisting condition healthcare coverage.
We were hired by the United Association to go in late to help Abby Finkenauer win the seat. Congressman Rod Blum had voted 10 times to gut protections for preexisting conditions and our mission was to deliver that message in a new way that could connect emotionally with the electorate.
In a sea of fast-moving pictures and ominous voices in political advertising we found a simple message – tied to a new way of thinking about the issue – was enough to cut through the clutter and help elect Abby Finkenauer to Congress.
Stockard Channing provided the incredible understated voice-over performance.
Campaigns must connect in a human way as people vote from their gut.
Love hate, anger, trust, joy, panic, fear, grief are the emotions that move us and make us feel alive. And the best political advertising touches a voter in a personal way.
These spots made a difference because they made people feel.
The spot above for Georgia Governor Roy Barnes used imagery to make a powerful point. The subtly and simplicity of the spot separates it from rote political ads.
The panic button hangs from the ignition.
The phone reads 911.
The milk represents blood.
The viewers were left with their thoughts as the spot was allowed to ring out for seven seconds – powerfully – simply.