In
KOs typically solid diary, a commenter
writes:
I like the platitudes.
But we have enough speeches on this site.
I'd like to see some actual organizing.
I'd like to see some actual action.
Well, I meant to post this yesterday, but I agree that we can wield even more power by putting our words to action. I have an idea for a political ad that would bring this entire election into sharp focus. And I need your help locating some footage. Call it open-source political admaking.
Somebody else jumped on this yesterday. President Bush, in commenting on Hamas' victory in the Palestinian elections,
made this stunning statement:
So the Palestinians had an election yesterday, and the results of which remind me about the power of democracy. You see, when you give people the vote, you give people a chance to express themselves at the polls -- and if they're unhappy with the status quo, they'll let you know. That's the great thing about democracy, it provides a look into society.
And yesterday the turnout was significant, as I understand it. And there was a peaceful process as people went to the polls, and that's positive. But what was also positive is, is that it's a wake-up call to the leadership. Obviously, people were not happy with the status quo. The people are demanding honest government. The people want services. They want to be able to raise their children in an environment in which they can get a decent education and they can find health care.
The ad writes itself. We use President Bush's own words, crosscut with images of Hurricane Katrina, people struggling with the new Medicare prescription drug benefit, chaos in Iraq, Abramoff, Sensenbrenner gaveling closed the Patriot Act meeting, the oil execs not having to testify under oath. Et cetera.
At the end, a title card: "We agree, Mr. President. Vote Democratic."
I'm an editor by trade. There's no doubt in my mind I can make this work in a powerful way. Instead of waiting for MoveOn to do it, or the DNC, or CAP, or anybody else, I'm very motivated to make it, fund it, and get it on the air.
One thing I've learned living in California this last year is that it's never too early to start this stuff. Schwarzenegger was sunk last year because of a vigorous and consistent campaign that started in January of '05.
Here's the thing: the brain trust here at Kos is powerful. I need a few resources as to where to find the best corresponding images for this ad. I have some Katrina stuff from MSNBC. Maybe Crooks and Liars has the actual Bush soundbite, anyone else know where to find that video? What about some of these other things? Iraq? Abramoff? The oil exec hearings? Anyone have some quicktimes?
I'm also not that seasoned in clearance issues for political ads. If you're using news footage in them, does that need to be cleared, or is a courtesy enough?
I'd welcome all thoughts and suggestions. With a little help, I could have this thing up and running in a few days.
thanks.