Bryan Parker has launched a campaign on CrowdTilt, appropriately entitled “Tilting Oakland Forward,” to seek funding for his 2014 campaign for Mayor of the city of Oakland. This may be just the beginning of a long, wonderful relationship between crowdfunding platforms and political campaigns.
Parker is the current Port Commissioner for the city and wants to challenge Mayor Jean Quan in 2014. He has offered VIP access to all of his campaign events for donations totaling $700 or more.
At the time of writing the campaign is just a few dollars away from a $20,000 goal with 10 days left, so full funding seems certain.
By using Crowdtilt to kick off my campaign, I aim to give every interested resident a chance to participate — instead of just the political insiders who have funded political campaigns in this town for far too long.Bryan Parker
Not-so-bold prediction alert: This won’t be the last time a crowdfunding platform plays a role in a political campaign. Now that crowdfunding has cemented itself in the greater national narrative, the 2014 elections may be the first cycle where politicians take to crowdfunding platforms to raise funds en masse.
Digital political contributions have already made their mark, especially following the success of Barack Obama’s online efforts during his two presidential runs. He raised almost $400 million from individuals contributing $200 or less in 2012.
