When the presidential candidates released their holiday videos this past week, not many chose to go the comedy route. But in his continued use of unconventional advertising methods, not to mention free publicity, former Alaska Sen. Mike Gravel agreed to appear in a video for humor site RedStateUpdate, entitled “Christmas with Mike Gravel”.
At times, the video shows a mischievous side of the former senator, such as when he’s shown spiking the punch bowl. But if Gravel’s goal was to gain exposure, it was surely accomplished — the video was picked up on numerousblogs, and is yet another example of the viral marketing tool the Gravel camp has used to distribute its message.
While Gravel’s innovative approach may not translate to big numbers in the polls — he’s at the bottom of the Democratic pack — he has been recognized by some technology websites. He snagged two spots on TechPresident’s list of top campaign videos.
And he’s got 6 percent support in TechCrunch’s vote for who they will endorse as their “Tech President” among the Democratic candidates.
On the campaign trail, Gravel kicked off a 10-day tour in New Hampshire on Friday aboard an RV in preparation for the Jan. 8 primary.
On NPR’s Talk of the Nation on Thursday, Gravel said that he would define success if he could poll even single digit numbers in the state, considering his meager $300,000 funds.
Gravel says he has not spent much time campaigning in Iowa, which will hold its primary on Jan. 3, because he is opposed to ethanol fuel, which is produced from corn, a major crop in the state.
There are rumors that Gravel may consider running as a third party candidate if he does not make headway in the Democratic primary, but his campaign has yet to confirm the news.
Email This
Vote 2008 Subscriptions 
Thank you for continuing to cover longshot candidates - and in such an articulate fashion, no less!