Shut Your Laptop List: The Bar’s in HELL & We’re Stressed
Like the Democratic National Committee, we had a whole plan for how our Friday might go. A few newsletter topics already identified and thought through. Then last night changed everything and has us shooketh.
But like the PR people we are — we’re not freaking out, we’re thinking about crisis planning.
When you have a misstep like last night's presidential debate, what are your next steps? What do you prioritize to get things back on track? This is an unfortunate moment where a typical “playbook” isn’t going to work. But we’ve given some thought to the top things that the DNC needs to have top of mind today and in the days ahead if a win in November is to remain in sight. And, even if you don’t work in political campaigning, more communications campaigns are turning to this type of disrupt-the-old-ways-of-thinking slant (like, when was the last time a RMT showed you drastic ROI???).
Where do we go from here?
- Every option is on the table. If you’re not starting from that mindset, you’re kneecapping your success. The Biden campaign's opposition has shown that unconventional approaches and a bit of "chaos" can actually resonate with the U.S. electorate (dare we say: they crave it?). Right now everything (minus blatantly stupid shit) has to be part of the strategic consideration set — unfortunately, even replacing the candidate at the top of the ticket. Out of the box thinking and challenging the grey-haired experts in the room can no longer be considered a hindrance to success.
- Dust off your research and engage culturally competent consultants. The Dems need to look at the figures who motivate young voters and voters of color — full stop. Last night's debate was concerning enough to consider that now an even wider swath of these voting blocs may disengage and choose the couch instead of the polls in November. And the math...without these demographics, it ain't mathin'. Take a long look and see who who energizes key parts of the Democratic base. Time to roll up your sleeves and identify those surrogates (and potential candidates) that can break through.
- Don’t let this massive disruption distract from the consequential ground game. This is definitely one of those instances where the campaign doesn't have the luxury of pausing activities to get all the thinking 100% sewn up. It's clear which issues are motivating critical voters in this moment: abortion, January 6th and immigration can't fall to the wayside as crucial focus points for the campaign while the higher-level discussions take place swiftly.
This is an uncomfortable moment, but professionals don't even think of folding when a crisis of this nature rears its head. Yesterday exposed what the party's been willing to openly (or privately) litigate. Now is an opportunity to refocus and respond — and this opportunity literally won't present itself again in this election cycle. Channel your inner Mariska and get back out there.
