Websites Spark 'Baracklash'

Independent web ads for favored candidates are making an impact

(NEWSER) - A glut of political amateurs who produce popular videos on the cheap for YouTube and similar sites is redefining campaign politics. The New York Times takes a look at the phenomenon, in which partisans with nothing but passion and a computer produce often scathing videos about McCain and Obama. The campaigns, meanwhile, are struggling to ajdust to "politics at the speed of the Internet," as one Obama adviser puts it. More»

Barack says sexy dancer's antics are confusing his daughter

(NEWSER) - Barack Obama has no love for sexy fan "Obama Girl." The hot YouTube video featuring the aspiring model crushing on the candidate is confusing his 6-year-old daughter and he says he finds it hard to take. She said, "Daddy, already has a wife," he told the AP. "You wish people would think about what impact their actions have on kids and families." More»

(NEWSER) - Barack Obama is determined to turn the legions of Facebook friends and Twitter subscribers that got him elected into an effective force for his administration, the New York Times reports. He’s already begun issuing his weekly addresses via YouTube video, rather than radio, and crafted a new group called Organizing for America to coordinate his online efforts. More»

Brits hope to partner with US to police web

(NEWSER) - Calling the Internet a “quite dangerous place,” Britain’s culture secretary says he’ll work with the Obama administration on establishing international guidelines to protect children. One idea under consideration: giving websites film-style ratings, the Telegraph reports. “There is definitely a case for clearer standards online,” said Andy Burnham, adding that America’s “change of administration is a big moment. We have got a real opportunity to make common cause.” More»

Dem's team give Web activists chance to weigh in on efforts

(NEWSER) - In an effort to jump-start health care reform, Barack Obama is returning to the social networking tools that got him elected, the Washington Post reports. Likely Health and Human Services Secretary Tom Daschle is starring in YouTube videos and taking massive conference calls with supporters interested in the subject. “Listening may be even more important than talking,” one watcher said, “because it diffuses opposition.” More»