Although Super Tuesday and months of primaries are behind us, many more months of election coverage still lie ahead as the Dems settle on a candidate and the two parties battle it out for top spot in the executive office. The coverage can seem impenetrable, but a little creativity can turn the constant political attention into an opportunity to showcase your issue. Here are some ideas to help navigate through all the red, white and blue:
Launch an opinion poll. If an issue that matters to your organization isn’t leading political headlines, use your Web site or partner with a reputable polling firm to conduct a policy-oriented opinion poll. Ask hard-hitting questions and look for opportunities to generate surprising news with the results. Help public affairs producers and political reporters find great spokespeople to illustrate the issue behind the results.
Go local. With every state and every vote likely in play this year, candidates and the media are paying close attention to many local issues and grassroots efforts. Host a series of town hall meetings, editorial board visits and other activities that can catch the attention of candidates, national assignment editors, political writers and public affairs producers.
Reposition your pitch. Instead of pitching a story that may not be clearly tied to candidate coverage, submit a question to public affairs producers that could be posed to show guests or even to the candidates directly.
