Posted: June 21, 2007

Sen. Hillary Clinton (D-N.Y.) introduced a major text messaging campaign in mid-May to stay in touch with voters, and now her closest rival has followed suit. Barack Obama has launched an SMS initiative to expand his grassroots network, organize volunteers for events and allow supporters to request information. Supporters can text “Go” to OBAMA (62262) to sign up for the service

A press release from Obama’s campaign states, “With millions of Americans relying on cell phones, this new service will enable the campaign to not only communicate news about events and campaign developments, but it will also allow users to request information from the campaign. The campaign will use text to inform supporters about important public appearance and ask for opinions and advice.”

Obama campaign officials also said they will use free ringtones and wallpapers to highlight the candidate’s positions and key statements on the war in Iraq, healthcare and other issues. The campaign said it won’t charge for the wireless service.

“This campaign is about the people across the country who are taking organizing into their own hands and text messaging is a key tool that will help us reach out to people who rely on their mobile phone service for information,” said Joe Rospars, new media director for the Obama campaign. “This is a service we hope to use to continue to communicate with our growing base of supporters who are excited about playing an active role in our efforts to change this country.”

The campaign blog says that millions of Americans rely on cell phones and are cutting the cords to their landlines. Therefore, the service is essential for them to communicate with this rapidly expanding group of potential voters.

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