AARP Vote08 Video Release

In 2008 AARP launched this website for the purpose of energizing its members to get out and vote in the presidential 2008 elections. Once the election was over this site's domain eventually expired. When I discovered it was available I decided to buy it with the goal of recreating the content from its 2008 archived pages. I added some additional information about AARP from other sources. You might wonder why I would recreate an old site's content that is not necessarily relevant today, but I believe from an historical perspective this AARP message should still be "findable" on the web. It continues to resonate even today. And the more ways that are available for people to discover AARP the better. You can reach their actual website by going to: https://join.aarp.org.

The cheeky video that was part of the 2008 election was hilarious, perhaps even provocative to some folks. I remember the first time I saw it. I was working as part of a custom application development team. Our progressive custom software company had a client in the healthcare market place who required our services. Because of their industry they were subjected to special regulations and a higher-than-usual expectation of security and privacy for their clients. We were brought in to address their security concerns by developing customized software. While we were taking a break, one of the company's executive liaisons popped her head into the IT office and invited us to come take a look at a new video AARP had just released on the internet. While I was watching it, all I could think of was how my very conservative New England father would react if / when he saw this. My mother has a great sense of humor, but my father is all about what is proper etiquette. We all thought it was hilarious and would certainly make a memorable statement to that demographic.

Hopefully if you come across this website, it will bring a smile IF you recollect this AARP campaign.

On Tuesday AARP launched an entertaining get-out-the vote campaign with an Internet video, which allows recipients to see their own names featured in campaign video, as well as on t-shirts and other paraphernalia as someone who can “shake up Washington.”

AARP believes it has found as way to energize potential voters. Their message basically says by the way you vote YOU can break the gridlock in Washington.
Let’s hope this will be a successful get-out-the vote campaign.

UPDATE: After the 2008 elections there was optimism that something would change in the halls of Congress. Unfortunately, seven years later, the GOP is fractured from within and Washington is even more dysfunctional than it was in 2008.

 

"As a longtime member of AARP, the AARPVote08.org campaign holds a special place in my heart. This initiative, especially with the get-out-the-vote team donning Superman hoodies, perfectly exemplified the organization's strength and dedication to empowering older Americans. AARP, known for its advocacy and support for those over 50, has been a beacon of hope and a source of invaluable resources. These hoodies symbolized not just our strength but our unity in making our voices heard. To me, AARP is more than an organization; it's a community that uplifts and represents our interests, ensuring we remain active, respected members of society." Trudy Wilson

 

More background on AARPVote08.org

The AARPVote08.org campaign by AARP in 2008 was a strategic and creative approach to boost voter turnout among older Americans during the presidential elections. The core of this initiative was an innovative and engaging video campaign that personalized the voting message. By allowing viewers to see their own names in the campaign material, the initiative added a personal touch, making the message more impactful.

The campaign addressed crucial issues that resonated with the older demographic, such as the state of the economy, the future of Social Security and Medicare, and the challenges in the healthcare system. These topics were not only pertinent to the AARP's constituency but also critical in the broader national discourse at that time. The video aimed to underscore the significant influence the upcoming presidential election would have on Americans, particularly those over 50, in the coming years.

AARP's decision to adopt a light-hearted and memorable approach to the campaign was a deliberate strategy to counter voter fatigue. At a time when political advertising was saturating media channels, AARP's initiative sought to maintain voter enthusiasm and encourage participation through Election Day. The video was just one part of a broader series of efforts by AARP, which included various online and offline methods like TV spots, radio ads, flyers, and a comprehensive voter guide. These resources were designed not only to educate voters but also to foster a space for discussion and engagement, particularly through AARP’s online community.

AARP's efforts in the 2008 election cycle reflect its longstanding commitment to addressing the needs and concerns of older Americans. As an influential nonpartisan organization, AARP has consistently played a significant role in empowering and mobilizing its members to actively participate in the democratic process. This includes not just voting but also staying informed about key policy issues and engaging in advocacy efforts.

The legacy of the AARPVote08.org campaign extends beyond its immediate impact on the 2008 elections. The campaign's innovative approach to voter engagement, particularly among older Americans, serves as a model for how organizations can effectively mobilize specific demographics. It also highlights the importance of addressing relevant societal issues in a manner that resonates with the target audience, thereby fostering a more informed and active electorate.

For more detailed insights on the AARPVote08.org campaign and its broader impact, visiting AARP's official website and exploring their archives could provide additional context and information.

 

PRESS RELEASE

October 20, 2008

Contact: Drew Nannis, AARP, 202-434-2560 anannis(at)aarp.org

Washington, DC – On October 21, 2008, AARP premiers a new component of their Get Out the Vote campaign. In this cutting edge, online video it will be revealed whom the organization’s pick is on November 4, election day.

Millions of personalized, online videos will be sent by AARP to its E-activists who will be the first to view the video. The 60-second video features a “man on the street” who turns around to face his fellow Americans in order to find out who will break the government’s gridlock found in Congress. The “man on the street” does not get the expected response. Upon watching the video, each viewer will be asked to “take action” by making a pledge to vote on or before Election Day.

AARP Executive Vice President Nancy LeaMond said: “We are coming down to the final few weeks of the campaign and we are seeing the number of undecided voters continuing to shrink. We believe it is critically important that AARP do everything it can to make sure people stay excited about voting through Election Day. What better way than to have some fun by emphasizing the importance of having leaders who are able to rise above the current partisan atmosphere and deliver on their promises? We have political coverage invading voters’ lives 24/7. It is critical that voters don’t become fatigued and overwhelmed by the bombardment of ads and events. We want the American people to stay motivated and vote on November 4th. Our fun video is just another way to help do that happens.

The video is just the latest effort made by AARP. In the weeks leading up to this video launch, AARP has released a collection of online and offline (TV spots, radio, and flyers) efforts to educate its supporters about the election. AARP has also distributed resources about early voting, a nationwide voter guide, and even opportunities to go to AARP’s online community to discuss the presidential debates.

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ABOUT AARP

AARP was founded in 1958.

AARP, a nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organization helps people 50+ learn about how they can have independence, choice, and control in ways that are not only beneficial and affordable to them, but also to society as a whole.  Please note that AARP does not endorse candidates for public office nor does the organization make contributions to either political campaigns or candidates seeking election.

AARP, The Magazine is the definitive voice for 50+ Americans. It is the world's largest-circulation magazine with over 33 million readers. The AARP Bulletin is the go-to news source for AARP's 40 million members and Americans 50+. There is also an AARP Segunda Juventud, the only bilingual U.S. publication dedicated exclusively to the 50+ Hispanic community. The AARP Foundation is an affiliated charity providing empowerment, security, and protection to older persons in need with the support of thousands of volunteers, donors, and sponsors. AARP have staffed offices in all 50 US states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, as well as  the U.S. Virgin Islands.

AARPVote08.org