In general I tend to agree with your first paragraph, so it left the quote. However the second paragraph opens an entire new can of snakes, er issues.

Part of the problem with getting more votes (for or against your chosen target) is that unless it is THEIR ox that is being gored, most simply can't be bothered. Look at the threads in this forum, the jet forum, and the 3D forums for a real education on that. Interest has to be created by special issues or direct intervention of the candidates.

As an example, consider all the noise from the jet guys and remember that they represent less than 1% of the entire membership of AMA. Why are they so vocal and loud? Simple, they perceive that it is their ox being gored right now. Similar opinions can be found from any group impacted by the new Safety Code rule #9, I know I got lots and lots of communications on those issues.

I think that the only way an impact on any election can be made is high profile 'on the ground' approaches. This means a VP and or candidate that move around a lot and are seen positively in many places. Face to face contact generates more activity than e-mails, phone calls, and the direct mails some well funded incumbents have used. In other words, if you want to trounce any candidate it takes hard work by you and your candidate. Hard work is not making phone calls, sending e-mails, or snail mail literature! No, hard work is traveling far and wide on a regular basis.