An article from Politico was reprinted in my local paper today, talking about Democrats videotaping GOP candidate houses and personal events. Is this a legitimate campaign tactic or does this go too far into harrassment?
The full article is here:
Democrats Candid Camera Techniques
Certainly, filming GOP candidates at public events and on the campaign trail is legitimate. Here in Virginia, we certainly know how important it is to see the candidate's true colors - George "Macacca" Allen went down in flames 6 years ago, and I am hoping VA's memory is long enough that it will hurt him again and lead Tim Kaine to the Senate.
And, Democrats are certainly not the only ones who have done this type of thing - we in VA also remember quite well the attack on Rep Tom Perriello's house (or rather, his brother's house) 2 years ago. The article points this out - although those here that get the Virginian Pilot might note that the edit of the article printed in today's paper conveniently left out the parts about what Republicans have done.
However, to me this goes too far. Perhaps a still shot with no location features if it's a huge McMansion and we're trying to get home a point about being out of touch. But actual videotaping, going around and talking to neighbors? Putting this out on youtube?
I don't know how true this statement is, but this bothers me:
Wisconsin GOP Rep. Reid Ribble, who said he’s also been followed by a cameraman when shopping for groceries, said the home videos cross a line.
Is this really necessary? While I want us to play hardball against the Citizen's United money standing against us, I believe this goes too far and borders on stalking. Let's stick to the campaigns and not resort to ugly tactics.