Robocall Systems are Neutral
November 6, 2006
Update: The calls in question began with the statement that the call was concerning a particular candidate and then proceeded by saying bad things about him. Not really confusing at all IMHO…
Lots of news today about robocall systems. While Big in Japan is working with various political groups on telephony based social media programs, they are not involved with the current robocall harassment. But we are aware of constituents from both parties (both Republican and Democratic) seeking ‘negative’ robocall services.
You will see hundreds of articles, news reports and speeches about these ‘negative’ robocall tactics for the remainder of the year. Both parties have used these systems all year long; however, this morning various Democrats began complaining that robocall was a form of voter theft and suppression. Matt stoller from MyDD explains:
Sources in Bergen County are reporting that an autodial robocall is being made that starts out sounding like a positive Bob Menendez message. If you hang up, it repeatedly calls you back. If you listen all the way to the end, it finishes by saying that Menendez is an embezzler and under criminal investigation.
This is a voter suppression tactic being used nationwide by the GOP. Initially callers will think they are hearing a call from the Menendez campaign asking for support. If they hang up, it will repeatedly call them back. The intention is to annoy the voter so much that they no longer support the candidate. For those who actually listen to the entire call, they are presented with a series of lies and smears against Menendez, also with the intention of suppressing turnout. It’s a win-win tactic for them.
First, I have not heard the call, but I am certain that both parties are pushing the envelope with their use of telephony platforms. Big in Japan is working with various political groups to build/customize their own robocall services for the 2008 elections. The real power of robocall systems like those built and managed by Big in Japan is to generate community around various issues, ideas, people and parties. Their programs are designed to give your constituents a voice and a mechanism to reach out to other potential constituents. Look for more integrated, dynamic robocall systems in place by 2008 ~ until then enjoy the controversy!
