October 3, 2004

9:41 PM

When did this "I'm George W. Bush, and I approve this message" meme start? Why? (As if a candidate would not approve a message put out by his/her campaign.) And why am I seeing it for all candidates?
posted by msacheson to (4 comments total)

It's the law.
posted by kickingtheground at 9:46 PM on October 3, 2004

It's part of McCain-Feingold. See previous AskMe.
posted by ALongDecember at 9:47 PM on October 3, 2004

Sorry for linking to my comment, it's not as relevant as others in the thread, such as the explanation from the FEC.
posted by ALongDecember at 10:01 PM on October 3, 2004

The thought was that candidates would be less likely to do harsh negative ads if they had to add their smiling mug and voice to the the message.

"Jim Smith hates old people and kicks puppies! I'm Bob Miller and I approve of this message."
posted by Steve_at_Linnwood at 8:58 AM on October 4, 2004