Technology and Alternative Politics

2. Voters - One of the key perceptions that many alternative candidates must overcome is the perception of the "paper candidate." That is the candidate, usually from a minor party, who registers to run in order to get one or two issues into the debate or in the local voter's guide. A well written and regularly updated blog dispels the notion that the candidate isn't serious particularly if he is blogging about regular speaking, fund-raising, and base-building efforts being made on behalf of the campaign.

3. Media - The perception of the "do-nothing" candidate is even stronger in the minds of the media. Most major media has long ago quit paying attention to alternative parties and campaigns. A blog, combined with a slick and professionally produced media center, can also help the campaign by making the media's job easier. Not only can they easily see who the candidate has been speaking to and involving himself with, they can easily learn when upcoming events of interest to the media are occurring. A well written blog will also have video and audio clips from events, speeches and media mentions. It will also link to positive press that is written on the candidate and his key issues. All of these things taken together create an aura of viability within media circles which is key to mounting a successful alternative campaign.