527 Reasons to Hate your Opponent

Probably the most well known independent ad campaign in recent history is the Swift Boat Veterans for Truth’s 2004 commercial. The ad disputed John Kerry’s self proclaimed valor in commanding a Navy gunboat. The group also brought attention to his anti-war efforts. This organization had a big impact on the election and definitely contributed to Bush’s reelection.

Independent groups are hoping to have the same effect in this year’s election. Groups for both Obama and McCain are taking aim at the opposition. The California Nurses Association aired a commercial in battleground states showing a picture of John McCain with a woman singing “One Heart Beat Away,” obviously pointing out John McCain’s age. The group was trying to put doubts in voter’s minds about Sarah Palin’s ability to lead the country. Veterans for Freedom has also started an ad campaign accusing Obama of caring more about his campaign than the troops in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Anti-McCain and anti-Obama groups have both spent about 6.6 million, in the last 2 weeks alone. As Election Day gets closer both sides are trying to ensure victory. So far, no one group has seemed to have any effect on the campaign. However, the ads that have come out so far are only the beginning. Many of these groups are looking for wealthy donors to put their ads on more often. The problem I have with these independent groups is that they only spout partisan rhetoric. I wish they would try and put some substance in their ads. Obama and McCain have set a negative tone for this election which is spreading.