Campaigning enters the computer age

By Randy Arrington

Staff Writer

It's crept it's way into every other facet of society, why not politics?

Candidates seeking office in the 21st century are learning to use every method they can 

to reach as many potential voters as quickly as they can, and the Internet has proven to 

be a cheap way to reach potential supporters.

"It saves tremendous amounts of time and money," said Woodstock attorney and 

independent candidate Brad Pollack, who is challenging incumbent Del.  Allen 

Louderback for the 15th District seat in the Nov. 6 election.

However, what works for one works for both Louderback's legislative assistant Gary Frink 

said he uses the Internet for purposes related to business at the General Assembly, as well

as a campaign resource.

"It speeds up everything.  It's much better than direct mail," Frink said.  "It has also given us and opportunity to get our statements out to newspapers very quickly.  If I was sending something to 25 supporters in different areas by fax, I would have to stand by the fax machine for an hour.  You can reach so many more people quicker."

Michael McVicar, Pollack's campaign manager, said he also uses e-mail and the Internet to  save the costs of routine mailings, as well as save time and be more efficient.

"I've primarily used it as a way to deal with different media with press releases and political advertisements," McVicar said.  "We've also received e-mails from people interested in the campaign.  It's a very good way to reach out and touch people, and for them to reach our and touch us."

Both candidates have Web sites that voters can visit to find out more information about the two candidates seeking the 15th District seat in the Virginia House of Delegates.

Louderback, the Republican incumbent, can be found on the Internet at www.gopmajority.com/louderback.htm.

The site has a short biography of the Page County native and quotes on key issues facing the state and district.

Pollack's site is www.shentel.net/pollack.  This site has a biography of the Independent candidate, as well as campaign press releases.