My birds eye view of the Democratic presidential nomination contest since 2002, as an Internet strategist:
Politics is a great spectator and participant sport, so doggone unpredictable, in which one person can make a difference without fully knowing it, perhaps until years later. Few realize even now, for example, that a few hundred caucus-goers in Iowa may have decided the Democratic nominee -- John Kerry won the caucus by less than 200 delegate equilivants over John Edwards. His surprising victory gave him almost unstoppable momentum.
As someone who closely observed AND participated in the Democratic nomination contest (primarily as a writer and Internet strategist for Senator Bob Graham, as well as several congressional candidates), I recall the phases of the Democratic primary campaign, and give my analysis of the possible LESSONS to learn in utilizing the Internet:
LESSON NUMBER ONE: Start using the Internet EARLY to build relationships, allies, communities, and networks, the way John Kerry did, even if you aren't yet certain of ultimate goals.
LESSON NUMBER TWO: Use the Internet to lay out your vision, and thoughtful, innovative positions on the issues and inspire like-minded people to join you, like John Edwards did.
LESSON NUMBER THREE: Be willing to take risks with the Internet, like Howard Dean's campaign did.
LESSON NUMBER FOUR: Try to win the Internet primary like Howard Dean did. It's a chance to capture the hearts of a political party's activist base.
LESSON NUMBER FIVE: Be creative and innovative, like Dean's campaign.
LESSON NUMBER SIX: Know when to contract out and when to keep things in-house. Don't expect miracles from the Internet, but if you start early, use it right, it can lead to good solid performance, even in Bob Graham's nascent campaign.
LESSON NUMBER SEVEN: Just because your candidate wins the "Internet primary," or is drafted by a 'groundswell' of Internet activists, don't assume he will win real elections. Wesley Clark supporters found that out the hard way.
LESSON NUMBER EIGHT: Live by the Internet, depend too much on it, die by the Internet, like Howard Dean did.
LESSON NUMBER NINE: Use online video generously, as Dean, Kerry, and Edwards did. If targeted and delivered effectively, it is probably more cost-effective than expensive television ads.
LESSON NUMBER TEN: Disappointing, failed campaigns can still make a mark, leave a legacy, teach something about politics and democracy, especially online (It's all about building networks and communities).
