PPAI Magazine December 2023

| Must Read While most Americans don’t vote consistently, 66% of voting-age citizens showed up at the polls for the 2020 presidential election – the highest voter turnout of the 21st century. As the 2024 presidential election season heats up, many voters on both sides of the aisle are open to hearing from candidates. When used at rallies, debates and speaking engagements, promo products allow candidates to educate the public on where they stand on some of the country’s most pressing issues. Contenders hoping to win a seat or nomination should also stock their online stores with political merch. Buying promo like flags and apparel items lets voters show their support while contributing to their candidate’s campaign. Plus, people love getting something tangible. While they may pause before chipping in a few bucks to support their candidate, they’re much likelier to give if that donation includes a promo item like a T-shirt or mug. Promos can also come into play with campaign staffers, organizers and volunteers. They can use and wear promo to become walking advertisements for their candidates or causes. When everyone wears the same message, it helps the entire campaign feel more cohesive and organized. The new year will bring about an avalanche of political activity ahead of the 2024 presidential election. From the White House to a seat on the city council or local school board, promo can help put candidates on the path to victory. Read on for some ideas to boost outreach and engage voters with promo. It’s A Sign Look around any community and you’ll likely see yard signs planted in front of homes and businesses and along the roadside. These signs might call out candidates by name or prompt people to “Vote Yes on Question 1!” About 1 in 10 Americans displays a yard sign for their preferred candidate, according to American National Election studies, and most people do so to let others know where they stand. Professors from Florida International University, SUNY-New Paltz and the University of Colorado at Boulder have concluded that not only do yard signs influence votes, but they can also leave lasting impressions after the election is over. Build Trust With Promo Young people are particularly pessimistic when it comes to politics. Only a third of adults under 34 expect to have a more representative and functional government than their parents, according to a report from the Sine Institute of Policy & Politics at American University. Many young people (48%) say they don’t trust the political system, including how elected officials are chosen. Candidates can use promo to connect with younger voters and to show they care about what matters to these constituents. States With The Most Voter Turnout Voters in these states tend to show up most often at the polls: Political incumbents and challengers alike can use promos to educate constituents and inspire more votes. Items like rally signs and hand fans make great giveaways at community events and can help candidates bolster more support ahead of Election Day. Minnesota: 79% Colorado: 75 % Maine: 75% Wisconsin: 75% Washington: 75% New Hampshire: 74% Oregon: 74% New Jersey: 73% Vermont: 73% Michigan: 73% PPAI • DECEMBER 2023 • 63

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