Today, we’re talking with Jon Seaton, Managing Partner of Camelback Strategy Group, a full-service political consulting and public affairs firm. Jon was Associate Director of Political Affairs for President George W. Bush and served as Regional Campaign Manager for Senator John McCain’s presidential campaign. Jon and I dig into the changing nature of the campaign ground game, how data and technology have transformed door knocking, and the rise of paid canvassing.
Key Takeaways:
1. Campaigns Need Ground-Level Insight, Not Just Data
Jon Seaton emphasizes that successful political campaigns must blend data with on-the-ground understanding of voters. Over-relying on national trends or polling models without local context can lead to strategic missteps.
2. Field Operations Still Matter in a Digital World
Despite the rise of digital campaigning, Seaton believes traditional field operations—door knocking, local events, and grassroots engagement—remain essential for building trust and turning out voters, especially in close races.
3. Consultants Must Balance Strategy with Execution
Seaton, drawing from his experience as a political consultant, stresses that strategy without operational follow-through is ineffective. He advocates for clear lines of accountability between advisors and campaign staff to ensure plans are actually implemented.
4. Understanding the Candidate Is Key to Messaging
Every campaign must build a message that authentically reflects the candidate. Seaton warns against “off-the-shelf” narratives that feel generic or disconnected from a candidate’s background, tone, and voice.
5. Lessons from the Field Should Shape National Strategy
Insights gathered from battleground states and local elections should inform national party approaches. Seaton encourages party leaders to pay close attention to successful down-ballot campaigns for innovative tactics and messaging cues.
Watch on Youtube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdzsHPQ_uNfN8r5PILc3NhQ
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