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E-mail addresses are apparently proving to be valuable assets to America’s presidential candidates as both John McCain and Barack Obama have been giving e-mail subscribers preferential treatment.
In a historic first, Democratic candidate Obama’s campaign offered e-mail subscribers an opportunity to be the first to learn of his pick for vice presidential candidate either by e-mail or text message.
“Barack Obama is about to make one of the most important decisions of this campaign — choosing a running mate,” wrote campaign manager David Plouffe in an e-mail to supporters. “You have helped build this movement from the bottom up, and Barack wants you to be the first to know his choice.”
The e-mail also asked recipients to forward it to friends, family and co-workers. Also, those who signed up to get the vice presidential announcement were presented with a form allowing them to enter others’ e-mail addresses and forward the message to all of them with a single click.
Meanwhile, McCain’s campaign gave its e-mail subscribers a first look at his newest ad taking jabs at Obama’s perceived celebrity status.
“We wanted you to be the first to see our new ad ‘Fan Club,’” wrote McCain’s campaign manager, Rick Davis, in an e-mail to supporters. The message offered a link to the ad whose graphics, music and voiceover were reminiscent of a late 60s game show.
“You’ve seen him in London, Paris and Berlin,” said the voiceover. “Now, you too can join The One’s fan club right here in America.”
The ad briefly criticizes Obama’s tax policy amid clips of would-be Obama voters gushing over him.
“We know he doesn’t have much experience and isn’t ready to lead, but that doesn’t mean he isn’t dreamy,” said the voiceover.
Both Obama’s and McCain’s e-mail efforts also prominently feature “donate” buttons.