Situation
Alderman Sposato was running for re-election in a newly drawn district and facing at least two well-funded, organized opponents. Third Coast Strategies researched and designed the end-to-end campaign strategy, including the direct mail program and digital campaigns across Google, YouTube, and Meta.
Approach
Third Coast Strategies designed an end-to-end direct mail campaign focusing on Alderman Sposato’s achievements (rather than a negative campaign against other candidates). Third Coast also designed a data-driven digital campaign to support direct mail messaging and also reach voters who did not receive direct mail.
Result
A resounding victory with Alderman Sposato avoiding a run-off with 56% of the vote despite facing five well-funded and well-known candidates. Many other Chicago north side Alderman’s did not clear the 50% hurdle and as a result, faced an April runoff.
Situation
Governor Quinn had never won a gubernatorial race as he succeeded former Governor Rod Blogojevich without an election. This was Governor Quinn’s first re-election campaign and he faced Republican challenger Bill Brady, a well funded IL State Senator who managed to out fundraiser Governor Quinn by 3x.
Approach
Third Coast organized 30+ canvassing drives and successfully knocked doors across all 50 Chicago Wards and 10 Townships across Cook County to reach 30,000 voters. Third Coast also helped organize and participate in the Chicago suburbs which ultimately helped Governor Quinn win by drawing out a larger percentage of suburban voters (which initially were considered Brady voters).
Result
Governor Quinn won a close re-election despite being outspent nearly 3x. Politico called it one of the closest gubernatorial elections in US history.