I couldn't find a diary on this one. I just heard about this contest on McCain's site.
after the fold
He has daily talking points on his website. People are asked to copy those and post links to various websites. Kos is linked there!
I heard about this listening to Politically Direct with David Bender (yesterday's podcast). So, I held my nose and went to see it for myself at the McCain site. Here is the link:
http://www.johnmccain.com/...
When Bender was discussing it with his guest (sorry, I don't know how to rewind my ipod to hear his name), Bender called this "astroturfing." Call it what you will, it is disgusting in my opinion.
Perhaps it is a bit of brilliance on the part of the McCain campaign -- free trolling!
Anyway, everyone who links the talking points to various sites will accrue points. That is the extent (that I could find) on the site of explanation. But Bender's guest said they get all kinds of prizes after the number of points go up. The guest (I think it was Farron Cousins, but don't quote me on that) said that the person with the most points may get a ride on the "Straight Talk Express."
I don't usually get this upset about political games, but this really nauseates me. Will it work?
P.S. Don't go to the McCain site unless you really feel you need to see for yourself. If you go, take a long, steamy shower afterward.