In the Kelowna city council election, a total of 37 candidates are vying for eight seats. To stand out in the crowded field, some first-time candidates are adopting unconventional strategies beyond the usual campaign methods like signs, pamphlets, and door-to-door canvassing.
One such candidate, Brady Rogers, a 33-year-old engineer and entrepreneur, has taken a humorous approach to his campaign. Using self-deprecating messaging through deadpan signs and social media, Rogers aims to inject some fun and authenticity into the election process. He believes this approach reflects his genuine personality rather than a calculated tactic.
Rogers’ unique campaign style has garnered attention not only locally but also internationally, with his campaign signs going viral in the United States, reaching around two million views. Despite the positive response, Rogers acknowledges the potential risks associated with making humor a central theme of his political campaign.
Similarly, first-time candidate Teresa May is making waves with her unconventional campaign tactics. Combining traditional voter outreach with eye-catching videos, May, an entrepreneur and community volunteer, showcases herself wake-surfing on Okanagan Lake while holding campaign signs. This approach aims to engage younger voters and create a memorable impression.
Meanwhile, in West Kelowna, re-election candidate Garrett Millsap has enlisted the help of his 10-year-old Beaglier, Cooper, in his campaign. Featuring Cooper on his election signs with the tagline “re-elect my human,” Millsap’s approach aims to bring a smile to commuters and engage supporters through interactive initiatives like taking selfies with the campaign signs.
Experts like David Black from Royal Roads University note that unconventional campaign tactics are not new but have gained momentum with the rise of social media. These strategies offer candidates a way to differentiate themselves and connect with voters on a more personal level, outside traditional party structures. However, while humor and creativity can attract attention, they also pose a risk of being perceived as unserious by voters.
As candidates like Rogers, May, and Millsap demonstrate, unconventional campaign approaches can be effective in capturing voter interest and setting candidates apart in a competitive political landscape.
