Zohran Mamdani’s social media strategy helped win NYC’s mayoral primary. Here’s what Canadian campaigns can learn from it.
How Zohran Mamdani Won with Social Media: Lessons for Canadian Campaigns Read More »
Running a winning campaign today means partnering with the right political marketing and advertising agencies in Canada. It takes more than knocking on doors and handing out flyers. From targeted social media ads to carefully crafted slogans, political marketing and advertising have become central to winning elections in Canada. Behind the scenes, many specialized agencies are helping candidates reach the right voters with the right message — and doing it across TV, digital, print, and everything in between. In 2025, the landscape is more complex than ever. Campaigns are shorter. Voter attention spans are even shorter. Digital ad spending by political parties and candidates is hitting record highs. With strict advertising rules, rising costs, and new platforms to navigate, choosing the right political marketing partner can make or break your campaign. This guide breaks it all down. Whether you’re running federally, provincially, or municipally, you’ll find the top political marketing and advertising agencies in Canada listed here, along with how to choose the right one for your needs. We’ll also explain how EOK Consults stands out in this space and why more candidates are turning to focused, digital-first firms over generalist or lobbying-heavy agencies. What is a Political Marketing Agency? At its core, a political marketing agency helps candidates and parties connect with voters. These agencies craft your message, design your campaign materials, and build your public image, both online and offline. They understand what voters care about and how to reach them. A political marketing agency focuses on the big picture: strategy, branding, voter research, digital presence, and outreach. Think slogans, website design, persuasive videos, direct mail, and coordinated messaging across platforms. A political advertising agency, on the other hand, is often more focused on the actual placement and delivery of ads. That includes buying space on TV, running YouTube pre-rolls, placing Facebook and Instagram ads, and managing digital budgets. Many firms today, especially political digital marketing agencies, do both. Services You Can Expect: Campaign strategy and voter targeting Branding, messaging, and content creation Social media and video ads Voter data analysis and audience segmentation Graphic design and print materials Get-Out-The-Vote (GOTV) campaigns Media buying and ad tracking Some agencies offer all of the above. Others specialize in one or two areas. The best fit depends on your budget, timeline, and what kind of race you’re running. Political Marketing vs Political Advertising – What’s the Difference? The terms “marketing” and “advertising” are often used interchangeably, but in politics, they mean slightly different things. Political marketing is the broader umbrella. It includes everything that shapes how voters see you – from your message to your logo, from lawn signs to your online videos. It’s about positioning, strategy, and storytelling. Political advertising, by contrast, is about distribution. It’s the paid promotion of your message through platforms like Meta (Facebook/Instagram), YouTube, Google Search, TV, and more. You can’t have effective advertising without strong marketing, and vice versa. Here’s a quick breakdown: Political Marketing Political Advertising Strategy & branding Ad placements & targeting Slogans & messaging Media buying (TV, Meta, YouTube) Website & social content Budget optimization Voter research & segmentation Performance tracking & reporting GOTV planning Platform compliance In 2025, most serious campaigns work with a political digital marketing agency – one that can blend strategy with paid media execution. Whether you’re hiring a full-service political ad agency or building a small team, knowing the difference between marketing and advertising can help you choose partners who actually move the needle. Top 10 Political Marketing and Advertising Agencies in Canada Canada’s political communications landscape is evolving fast – and so is the roster of agencies shaping its future. This list of political marketing and advertising agencies in Canada highlights ten notable players in the space. Our methodology considers digital presence, campaign specialization, client roster, media coverage, and the agency’s thought leadership. We’ve prioritized agencies with a demonstrated focus on Canadian elections and public campaigns, not just corporate or lobbying work. This list will be updated regularly as new frontrunners emerge and the field continues to evolve. #1. EOK Consults – Digital-First, Campaign-Focused EOK Consults is a Canadian political digital marketing agency built from the ground up for today’s campaigns. Unlike traditional public affairs or lobbying firms, EOK is a digital-first, full-service agency that exclusively focuses on political and advocacy work. From local nomination races and municipal contests to national leadership campaigns and federal elections, we’ve supported candidates and causes at every level. Known for our high-precision digital ad targeting across platforms like Meta, YouTube, and Connected TV (CTV), EOK also provides creative services ranging from graphic design and website builds to professional video production. Our deep understanding of Canadian political dynamics – combined with a track record of strong wins (including an 86% win rate in the 2025 Ontario provincial election and major upsets federally) – has made us a go-to partner for campaigns looking to turn online momentum into real-world results. If you have a project in mind, get in touch today! #2. Crestview Strategy – Public Affairs with Digital Expertise Crestview Strategy is one of Canada’s largest public affairs firms, known for its government relations and communications work across sectors. While political campaigns aren’t its sole focus, the agency has delivered major digital advertising initiatives in past elections, especially for centre-right parties. Its size and corporate client base suggest it’s better suited for well-resourced campaigns looking for full-spectrum support. Visit Crestview Strategy #3. Spark Advocacy – Progressive, Cause-Driven Campaigns Spark Advocacy specializes in high-end creative and narrative development, often for advocacy organizations, labour groups, and progressive campaigns. With strong in-house design and messaging teams, it’s best known for visually striking campaigns and storytelling. While it leans toward issue-based work, it’s also played roles in political races across Canada. Visit Spark Advocacy #4. Burrard Strategy – Counsel-First Approach with Digital Services Based in Vancouver, Burrard Strategy combines campaign strategy with public affairs and digital media. Their political services include research, creative work, and advertising, though these are part of a wider offering that includes corporate
Updated as of May 03, 2025. TL; DR: Canada’s 2025 federal election was a digital-first campaign like no other. From record-breaking Meta ad spending to TikTok influencers driving political conversations, the race unfolded online. In this blog post, we break down the platforms, strategies, and moments defining this historic election. Canada’s 2025 Federal Election and Social Media: A Complete Guide to Digital Campaigning, Meta Ads, and Viral Influence As Canada wrapped up its 2025 federal election, we witnessed a digital campaign unlike any in the country’s history. With over 19.5 million ballots cast and a voter turnout rate of 68.65%, Canada’s 2025 federal election saw digital campaigning play a defining role. The Liberals, who led Meta spending throughout the campaign, secured 169 seats and 43.7% of the popular vote, outperforming the Conservatives’ 144 seats and 41.3%. Political parties unleashed a blitz of targeted Meta ads, last-minute influencer partnerships, and rapid-response social content in hopes of shaping perceptions and sealing support. Why #Elxn45 is a Digital Election Like No Other The 2025 Canadian federal election ushered in an unprecedented era of digital campaigning. What began as a trickle in previous cycles became a full-blown flood of social media ads, influencer content, and algorithm-savvy messaging. Campaigns didn’t just reach voters through door-knocks and lawn signs – they showed up big time in Instagram stories, TikTok “For You” pages, and sponsored posts between reels. More than 2 million Canadians voted on the first day of advance polls, a figure that shattered expectations and demonstrated the growing effectiveness of digital outreach. Youth voter turnout, traditionally a concern in Canada, was on an upswing, in part due to the smart, consistent use of platforms like TikTok and Instagram to engage younger audiences. TikTok creators continued to shape the conversation for younger voters, and influencer engagement helped the NDP and Greens punch above their media weight, even if that didn’t translate into a proportional number of seats. The results confirm what digital strategists have long known: attention online drives turnout offline. Campaigns that mastered audience targeting, localized messaging, and culturally competent creative saw the biggest returns at the ballot box. Meta Ads: The New Front Line of Persuasion Facebook and Instagram Spending Soars If there’s one battlefield where parties invested heavily, it’s Meta platforms. Facebook and Instagram remained the top destinations for political advertising dollars in 2025. According to reporting by The Logic, these platforms continued to deliver scale, microtargeting, and measurable ROI, particularly useful in the vast and diverse Canadian electorate. The Liberals and Conservatives both invested millions into Meta ads, but their approaches differed. While the Liberals ran a blend of national branding and localized persuasion ads backed by strong investment (and leading the Conservatives almost always during the writ period), the Conservatives took a creative-first approach. Their content strategy focused on daily video releases, compelling storytelling, and issue-specific messaging that was constantly adjusted based on performance. Want to run persuasive Meta ads for political campaigns? Check out our Ultimate Guide to Facebook Political Ads in Canada. Language and Localization: Winning Ethnic Votes One of the most noticeable shifts in 2025 was the growing sophistication of ethnocultural outreach. The Conservatives ran a series of attack ads in Punjabi, targeting specific ridings with tailored narratives. It’s a strategy that not only signalled cultural competency but also demonstrated how Meta’s targeting tools can be used to reach linguistic and geographic niches with pinpoint accuracy. The Liberals returned fire with their own set of translated graphic ads in Punjabi, Urdu and Hindi, but didn’t invest much in high-quality video ads, unlike the Conservatives. TikTok, Influencers & Viral Moments in the 2025 Federal Election TikTok and the Power of Influence TikTok emerged as a major player in this election, not because of official party content, though there was some, but because of the rise of political influencers. From creators posting comedic takes on policy to earnest explainers about climate legislation, content creators helped shape the narrative for millions of users. As explored by The Globe and Mail and Hill Times, the impact of these voices was both measurable and grew rapidly with top influencers raking in millions of views on their videos discussing the election, key moments and policy promises. What makes TikTok distinct is its ability to elevate moments that would otherwise be niche algorithmically. One video explaining Pierre Poilievre’s housing plan or criticizing Mark Carney’s economic stance can quickly amass hundreds of thousands of views, especially when repackaged with trending audio or pop culture references. From Mike Myers to Edmonton Crowds Some of the biggest viral moments in 2025 came from somewhat unexpected (but carefully orchestrated) sources. A nostalgic ad featuring Canadian actor Mike Myers – best known for his roles in Austin Powers and Wayne’s World – endorsing the Liberal leader Mark Carney, quickly racked up millions of views and sparked debate about celebrity involvement in politics. Meanwhile, Pierre Poilievre continues to demonstrate his ability to mobilize large crowds, none more striking than his Edmonton rally, which drew over 10,000 attendees and saturated social feeds with photos and videos. Jagmeet Singh, long known for his digital fluency, continued to punch above his weight class with engaging livestreams, TikTok trends like GRWM (which got over 4 million views) and Live Q&A. His connection with younger voters remained authentic and consistent, even though it didn’t translate into a big vote surge at the ballot box. Artificial Intelligence Joins the Campaign Team Content Creation and Microtargeting at Scale AI tools were used behind the scenes to accelerate campaign production and outreach. From writing ad scripts to analyzing voter sentiment, artificial intelligence was no longer a theoretical campaign tool – it was in daily use, both at the HQ War Rooms level as well as down to individual campaigns. For instance, several campaigns used AI to test ad copy in multiple languages, speeding up outreach to multicultural communities without relying on slow human translations. Additionally, some campaigns deployed multiple ad versions using generative AI, which were then tested on platforms like Meta to determine what resonates best with
With the 2025 federal election fast approaching, the battle for the Prime Minister’s office is already being framed by two strikingly different political brands. Mark Carney, the newly chosen leader of the Liberal Party, and Pierre Poilievre, the leader of the Conservatives, are using two distinct slogans – Canada Strong and Canada First – to present their vision for the country. In a time when external pressures (aka Trump tariffs and the “51st State” pitches) loom large over Canada’s future, Canada First vs Canada Strong is more than just a clash of phrases; it represents the larger political narratives each leader is trying to sell to Canadians. Canada Strong vs Canada First: A Clash of Phrases in a Changing Political Landscape Carney quickly adopted Canada Strong as his rallying cry, unveiled at the leadership convention. It’s a message meant to evoke unity and strength, especially in the face of global uncertainty and the threat to Canada’s sovereignty. His videos and speeches highlight the need for a government that stands up for Canada and its people, focusing on resilience and collective prosperity. The slogan fits neatly into his larger narrative of standing firm in the face of challenges – something that many Canadians may find comforting, especially after the turbulence of recent years. Meanwhile, Poilievre is taking a much sharper approach with his Canada First mantra. His social media ads already feature bold statements like “Canada will bear any pain and pay any price to retain its sovereignty.” With tensions over tariffs, trade, and international relations on the rise, Poilievre’s message is clear: the focus should be on prioritizing Canada’s interests above all else. His ads tap into a growing sense of anxiety about the external threats facing the country, from the shifting global economy to rising geopolitical risks. Will It be “Canada First” or “Canada Strong”? This political showdown is not just a matter of different parties trying to out-message each other. It’s a clash of worldviews at a critical time for Canada. With domestic issues like cost of living, affordability, and housing crisis taking a backseat to international concerns, these slogans speak to different aspects of what Canadians might need or want from their leaders. On the one hand, Carney’s Canada Strong is a message designed to reassure those who believe in the need for unity and national strength in uncertain times. But will that message resonate with voters if they feel more anxious about external threats than the need for unity? And how will Poilievre’s more direct, nationalistic Canada First approach sit with those who are tired of seeing Canada dragged into global conflicts? In an era where global politics is dominating national discourse, traditional political playbooks may not work as well. Voters are likely to be drawn to candidates who can show they will protect the country from external risks – whether that’s trade wars, environmental disasters, or geopolitical instability. Both leaders will need to convince Canadians that their approach will shield the country from the chaos unfolding around the world. A Battle for the Heart of Canada’s Identity This election is shaping up to be about more than just political promises; it’s about branding Canada’s identity at a critical moment. For Carney, Canada Strong suggests a kind of stability and resilience, a message of collective endurance. For Poilievre, Canada First is a declaration that the country’s sovereignty is paramount, that Canada must not be influenced by outside forces, and that the Canadian people must come first. Looking Ahead In the coming months, the battle between these two phrases – Canada First vs Canada Strong – will only intensify as each side crafts ads and messaging around their core slogan. But for now, Canadians are left to consider which of these messages resonates most with their own sense of identity and what they feel is at stake for the future of the country. As the political campaign heats up, it will be fascinating to see which vision for Canada captures the imagination of voters. Will it be the call for strength and unity in uncertain times or the insistence on putting Canada first at any cost? One thing is certain – this will be an election where the external world plays a far larger role in shaping voters’ decisions than the usual domestic concerns. Interested in staying updated with political marketing trends and insights in Canada? Don’t forget to check out our blog. Looking for some digital campaign advice from Canada’s leading political digital marketing agency? Get in touch!
In the 2025 Ontario provincial election, Premier Doug Ford’s Progressive Conservative Party secured a decisive victory, winning 80 out of 124 seats and capturing 43% of the popular vote. The election, notably held in winter, saw a 45.40% voter turnout, underscoring the significance of digital campaigning in reaching voters during less traditional election periods. Social media platforms, especially Meta (Facebook and Instagram), were flooded with ads from political parties trying to win voters’ attention. But how did the Ontario political parties spend their money, and what can we learn from their strategies? In this post, we’ll dive into the numbers, trends, and insights behind the social media ad spend during the Ontario election of 2025. The Breakdown of Social Media Ad Spending in the 2025 Ontario Election In total, $2.17 million was spent on Meta ads across the four main parties. Here’s how the budget stacked up: Ontario Liberals: $1,432,200 (66% of total spend) Ontario PCs: $305,500 Ontario NDP: $271,700 Ontario Greens: $161,900 As you can see, the Ontario Liberals were by far the biggest spenders, dedicating more than half of the total ad budget. This shows their commitment to social media as a key battleground in this election. The PC Party, on the other hand, spent considerably less but ramped up their spending toward the end of the campaign period. The NDP and Greens spent significantly less, focusing their efforts on particular areas rather than broad-based ad campaigns. The Power of Targeting: Smart Strategies vs. Spray-and-Pray When we look at the strategies behind these ad spends, it’s clear that targeting was the key to success. The Ontario Liberals and Ontario NDP showed more sophistication in how they used social media to reach their voters, especially in the areas where it mattered most. Ontario PCs: Broad Reach but Low Precision The Ontario PC Party spent a good portion of their budget early in the campaign but made a noticeable push in the second half. However, their approach seemed to follow a spray-and-pray strategy -casting a wide net across Ontario with less precise targeting. Given that they were the incumbents and voter turnout was expected to be low, their focus was noticeably on general brand awareness and consideration and less on persuasion. Ontario Liberals: Smart Investment in Key Areas In contrast, the Ontario Liberals spent the bulk of their funds more strategically. Instead of a broad approach, they honed in on specific areas and key postal codes where they had a strong chance of winning. By interest-based targeting and focusing on voters in regions with a history of Liberal support, they were able to better leverage their ad spend. While their efforts didn’t result in an overall victory, the Liberals did manage to increase their vote share and secure a few surprise seat pickups, demonstrating that their investments weren’t in vain. On the eve of Election Day, the Liberals dropped $172,000 on ads in a single day, trying to push their message to undecided voters in key ridings. This high-impact push shows just how vital digital advertising was in shaping the final stretch of the campaign. Ontario NDP: Maximizing ROI Through Efficient Spending The Ontario NDP, despite spending far less than both the Liberals and PCs, made the most out of their budget. Their strategy was more about efficiency and focusing on core ridings where they could see the best return on investment (ROI). With consistent spending spread throughout the campaign, they built a solid presence in the areas that mattered most, pushing key messages to their target audience in high-interest postal codes. Their strategic focus on a smaller number of ridings helped them outperform expectations, including winning nearly double the number of seats as the Ontario Liberals, despite spending a fraction of what the Liberals invested. Ontario Greens: Consistent and Targeted Ads The Green Party of Ontario took a similar approach to the NDP but with a slightly smaller budget. They invested in targeted, interest-based advertising to promote their message in areas where they had strong local support or hoped to make some gains (like Parry Sound Muskoka). While their overall ad spend was much lower, they maintained consistency, ensuring their ads reached the right people without overextending their budget. This is highlighted by the historic victories with grand margins that they received in Guelph and Kitchener Centre. Areas and Ridings Focused by Ontario Liberals and Ontario NDP During the 2025 Ontario election, both the Ontario Liberals and Ontario NDP strategically focused their digital ad spend on key ridings where they had the potential to make significant gains. The Ontario Liberals honed in on areas where they traditionally performed well or where there was a shift in voter sentiment, targeting suburban ridings and urban centres that were crucial for their seat count. Their messaging was tailored to appeal to urban voters and those in swing districts, making use of interest-based targeting in areas such as Toronto, Ottawa, and parts of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). The Ontario NDP, on the other hand, concentrated on strongholds in urban districts and select rural regions, where they had previously made gains. Their efforts were particularly focused in northern Ontario and Toronto ridings with a strong working-class base, leveraging their social and economic platform to resonate with voters who were impacted by issues like healthcare, education, and labour rights. Creative Strategy and Policy Focus Each party’s creative strategy and messaging in the 2025 Ontario election were uniquely tailored to appeal to their core voter base and address the prevailing political climate. The Ontario Liberals focused heavily on healthcare, particularly their plans for mental health services, an issue that resonated deeply with voters who had concerns about the state of healthcare in Ontario. They also used attack ads targeting Premier Doug Ford, aiming to portray his leadership as ineffective, especially in the face of economic challenges. The Ontario PCs, in contrast, emphasized their narrative of protecting Ontario from the effects of external threats, such as Trump tariffs and the global economy. This messaging played
2025 Ontario Election Social Media: Spending Big and Targeting Smarter Read More »
At EOK Consults, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of political marketing and campaign innovation. The Next Campaign Tech Showcase was a powerful reflection of this vision, bringing together campaign professionals, strategists, and technology experts to explore the latest advancements in digital political engagement. As a co-founder and presenting sponsor of Next Campaign, our team played an integral role in shaping this event. The tech showcase was built on the success of our first summit last year, providing a focused opportunity to explore campaign technology in greater detail. While the Next Campaign Summit brings together policy minds, advocacy groups, and big-picture ideas, this event placed technology at the forefront, demonstrating how campaigns can leverage cutting-edge solutions to win. A Cutting-Edge Political Tech Experience With over 200 attendees joining us in person, the event featured more than 30 speakers and experts sharing their insights from the stage. In addition, we welcomed over 15 technology solution providers, each showcasing tools designed to transform modern campaigning. From Door-Knocking to Data-Driven Campaigns The event highlighted how technology is reshaping voter outreach. While traditional grassroots tactics remain crucial, digital strategies have become indispensable. Sessions explored cutting-edge topics such as: AI in Political Advertising – Leveraging machine learning to optimize messaging and audience engagement. Digital Advertising & Data-Driven Targeting – Harnessing precision targeting for maximum impact. Social Media Trends & Best Practices – Navigating the evolving landscape of political communication. Strategies for the 2025 Federal Election – Preparing campaigns for the next big political showdown. Learnings from Recent Provincial Elections – Key takeaways from recent campaign successes and challenges. Engaging Diverse & Multicultural Audiences – Reaching voters in meaningful and culturally relevant ways. Showcasing Innovation in Political Tech Attendees were able to engage with live demos of the latest campaign tech, including data analytics platforms, AI-driven ad tools, and voter engagement software. The showcase provided a hands-on look at the game-changing innovations defining the next election cycle. Why This Matters for Political Campaigns In today’s fast-paced digital world, campaigns that fail to adapt risk falling behind. The Next Campaign Tech Showcase provided invaluable insights for campaign managers, political strategists, and digital marketers looking to stay ahead of the curve. The discussions and demonstrations reinforced that the future of political engagement is data-driven, AI-enhanced, and deeply digital. Looking Ahead The whole idea behind Next Campaign is to be at the forefront of innovation and campaigning. It’s a platform where we bring together diverse ideas and technologies, enabling professionals to learn from each other and push the world of campaigning forward. With the federal election approaching, political campaigns must integrate the right mix of technology, strategy, and execution to be competitive. At EOK Consults, we remain at the forefront of this transformation, helping candidates and organizations leverage the most effective digital tools to connect with voters and drive results. We are proud to have built Next Campaign into a leading event where innovation meets political strategy. Stay tuned for more insights from the Next Campaign Tech Showcase, and check out the event photos below!
Next Campaign Tech Showcase 2025: Shaping the Future of Political Campaigning Read More »
Justin Trudeau’s resignation as Prime Minister and Liberal Party leader marks the end of an era in Canadian politics. While his departure opens the door to new leadership, it also leaves the Liberals at a crossroads. The next leader will face a daunting task: introducing themselves to millions of Canadians in a short period and rallying a fractured party for the 2025 election. Meanwhile, Pierre Poilievre and the Conservatives already have a powerful advantage: a dominant digital strategy centred on platforms like YouTube. This isn’t just about the Liberals finding a leader—it’s about catching up in a game the Conservatives have been winning for quite some time now. Why YouTube Matters in 2025? YouTube’s importance in Canadian politics cannot be overstated. In a world where Meta’s ban on Canadian news has limited access to journalism on platforms like Facebook and Instagram, YouTube has emerged as the go-to space for unfiltered, direct communication. Canadians watch more YouTube than anyone else in the world, making it a critical platform for political engagement. Pierre Poilievre and his team recognized this early. Pierre Poilievre’s YouTube channel is a political powerhouse, with over 500,000 subscribers and more than 145 million views. In the last 30 days alone, his channel has garnered over 5 million views. Poilievre’s content strategy focuses on making complex issues accessible, using YouTube as a platform to amplify his narrative and mobilize his base. Whether or not the majority of viewers agree with his conclusions, his ability to connect with Canadians is undeniable. This digital grassroots approach has turned YouTube into more than a campaign tool for Poilievre—it’s a platform for shaping national conversations. His videos consistently attract millions of views, turning issues he prioritizes into topics of public debate. This level of influence presents a significant challenge for the Liberals’ incoming leader. The Liberals’ New Challenge For the Liberals, Trudeau’s departure adds urgency to their digital dilemma. The next leader will not only have to define themselves but also introduce their vision to a skeptical electorate in record time. Historically, the Liberals have relied on polished, top-down communication strategies. But in a digital-first world, where authenticity and relatability are prized, this approach risks falling flat. This contrast is most evident when comparing the parties’ presence on YouTube. Trudeau’s official channel has fewer than 40,000 subscribers and only about 2.5 million views—a fraction of Poilievre’s numbers. Before his resignation, the channel was attracting around 3,000 new followers monthly, compared to over 30,000 for Pierre Poilievre’s YouTube channel. While the Liberals have started to experiment with more relatable content, their efforts remain sporadic and lack the impact of Poilievre’s consistently strategic approach. The new leader will inherit a not-so-strong digital footprint that they will then have to expand and leverage. Digital Strategy: The Conservative Edge The Conservatives’ digital dominance extends beyond YouTube. According to Meta’s Ad Library, the CPC has consistently outspent the Liberals on social media advertising, often by staggering margins. In the fall of 2024, the Conservatives spent over $350,000 on Meta ads in a single month, while Liberal spending trailed far behind. This was on top of their record spending blitz in 2023. This disparity reflects not just a financial gap but also a strategic one. The Conservatives have embraced digital platforms as essential tools for voter outreach. Poilievre’s team has also mastered the art of creating shareable, engaging content that fosters a sense of community among supporters. His videos don’t just inform; they activate, encouraging viewers to participate in discussions and spread his message organically. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rnEj7WLsWbkhttps://youtu.be/vOB7-dbYuCc What’s Next? For the Liberals’ next leader, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The 2025 election will demand more than a charismatic presence or well-crafted policies—it will require a robust digital strategy that can compete with the Conservatives’ lead. The challenge is twofold: building a recognizable brand in record time and deploying a digital communication strategy that resonates with Canadians. This isn’t just about catching up to Pierre Poilievre’s YouTube numbers or outspending the Conservatives on Meta. It’s about understanding how to connect with voters in a fragmented media landscape where authenticity, accessibility, and engagement matter more than ever. As the Liberals navigate their post-Trudeau reality, they must confront a hard truth: their digital strategy is not just a weakness—it’s a liability. With Meta’s news ban shifting more Canadians to platforms like YouTube for information, the Liberals cannot afford to treat digital outreach as an afterthought. The 2025 election will test their ability to adapt to a rapidly changing political landscape. Pierre Poilievre and the Conservatives have shown what’s possible when digital tools are used effectively. For the Liberals, the path forward demands swift action, bold strategy, and a willingness to embrace digital innovation. One thing is clear: the road to Parliament Hill in 2025 starts online. The question is whether the Liberals can find their footing before it’s too late.
Unpacking Pierre Poilievre’s YouTube Success and the Liberals’ Digital Deficit Read More »
The 2024 Nova Scotia Election and Social Media strategies played an important role in this year’s political outcomes. Premier Tim Houston led the Progressive Conservatives (PC) to a strong re-election, securing 43 seats and almost 53% of the vote share. The New Democratic Party (NDP) won 9 seats with over 22% of the vote, while the Liberals trailed with just 2 seats and 23% of the vote. This post breaks down how each party used social media, especially Meta advertising, to reach voters and what lessons can be learned for future campaigns. 2024 Nova Scotia Election Results: PCs Dominate, NDP Gains, Liberals Falter The PCs increased their seat count to 40, reaffirming Tim Houston’s leadership. The NDP, led by Claudia Chender, made gains with 10 seats. The Liberals, led by Zach Churchill, struggled to maintain relevance, winning only 4 seats, including one elected and three leading. The voter turnout was 65%, consistent with previous elections, but digital campaigns clearly played a role in shaping voter engagement and decision-making. Social Media Ad Spending in the 2024 Nova Scotia Election Each party leveraged Meta advertising to varying degrees, reflecting their priorities and resources: Progressive Conservatives (PC): $20,500 New Democratic Party (NDP): $8,400 Nova Scotia Liberal Party: $18,500 Source: Meta Ad Library These investments highlight the differences in how the parties approached their digital strategies. How the Progressive Conservatives Used Social Media The PCs ran a variety of ad campaigns, including Get Out the Vote (GOTV) efforts for local candidates, contrast ads comparing their policies to the NDP’s, and videos promoting their achievements during Houston’s tenure. Key themes in their campaign included: Housing and affordability, addressing a critical voter concern. Healthcare improvements, with a focus on expanding access and reducing wait times. Showcasing economic successes under their leadership. By combining ads featuring local candidates with province-wide messaging, the PCs were able to connect with voters on both personal and broader levels. NDP’s Focus on Claudia Chender The NDP spent $8,400 on ads, centring much of their budget on promoting leader Claudia Chender to raise her profile. Their ads included both videos and graphics, emphasizing the party’s focus on healthcare and affordability while distinguishing themselves from the PCs and Liberals. Their strategy prioritized: Leadership branding, positioning Chender as a strong alternative. Highlighting platform differences, particularly on housing and social services. Supporting individual candidates in key ridings. Although the NDP made gains, their limited budget likely restricted their ability to reach more voters. Liberals’ Focus on Attack Ads The Liberals spent $18,500, targeting their ads on healthcare issues and attacking Tim Houston’s leadership. While these ads resonated with voters frustrated by healthcare wait times, the Liberals failed to offer a strong, positive narrative around their leader, Zach Churchill. Their campaign focused on: Criticizing the PCs’ record on healthcare. Raising awareness about waitlist challenges and system inefficiencies. However, the lack of consistent leader-centered messaging and solutions-focused ads left the party struggling to gain ground. Social Media Ads in the 2024 Nova Scotia Election The types of ads each party ran had a major impact on how they were perceived: PCs: A mix of policy-focused ads, GOTV efforts, and videos highlighting achievements. NDP: Leadership branding with Claudia Chender and content showcasing key platform differences. Liberals: Attack ads on PC governance paired with healthcare-focused graphics. Lessons from the 2024 Nova Scotia Election The 2024 Nova Scotia Election and Social Media campaigns reveal several takeaways about how digital strategies shape elections: Leadership Focus Works: The PCs and NDP both used leadership branding effectively. Houston’s proven record and Chender’s rising profile helped their respective parties connect with voters. Attack Ads Alone Aren’t Enough: The Liberals relied heavily on negative ads but didn’t present a clear vision or build Zach Churchill’s profile. This likely contributed to their poor performance. Budget Matters: While the NDP ran a strong campaign on a smaller budget, their limited reach showed the challenges smaller parties face in competing with larger ad spends. Conclusion: Social Media’s Growing Role in Canadian Elections The 2024 Nova Scotia Election and Social Media strategies highlight how digital advertising continues to shape political campaigns. Parties that use social media to balance leadership branding, positive messaging, and local engagement will likely perform better in future elections. As the digital age evolves, social media will remain a critical tool for political parties to engage voters, share their platforms, and influence outcomes. Whether through targeted ads or leader-focused content, the lessons from this election will guide campaigns in Nova Scotia and beyond. Ready to create a winning campaign? At EOK Consults, we specialize in crafting targeted social media strategies that deliver results. With our expertise in digital advertising, data-driven insights, and experience supporting successful campaigns, we can help you connect with voters and achieve your goals. 📩 Contact us today to start planning your next winning campaign!
The 2024 Nova Scotia Election and Social Media: How Digital Campaigns Shaped the Results Read More »
The 2024 New Brunswick Election and Social Media advertising played a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape. With Susan Holt leading the Liberals to a majority government and Progressive Conservative leader Blaine Higgs losing his seat, this election showcased the growing importance of digital campaigns in influencing voters. As we analyze the results and how each party used Meta advertising on platforms like Facebook, it’s clear that online strategies made a significant impact on voter engagement and outcomes. This post will explore how the 2024 New Brunswick Election and Social Media intertwined to create a powerful narrative for voters. 2024 New Brunswick Election and Social Media Results Breakdown The 2024 New Brunswick Election and Social Media engagement highlighted a dramatic shift in power. The Liberals, under Susan Holt, secured a majority government, winning 31 ridings and 48% of the vote. Meanwhile, the Progressive Conservatives (PC) claimed 16 ridings with 35% of the vote, and the Green Party won 2 seats with 14% of the total vote. PC leader Blaine Higgs, who previously served as premier, lost his seat in Quispamsis to Liberal candidate Aaron Kennedy. This marked a significant change in political leadership. Green Party leader David Coon retained his seat in Fredericton-Lincoln, showing the Greens’ strong regional foothold. Turnout mirrored previous elections, with about 66% of registered voters casting their ballots—a testament to the effective 2024 New Brunswick Election and Social Media voter engagement efforts by all parties. 2024 New Brunswick Election and Social Media Strategy Social media advertising, particularly on Meta platforms like Facebook, was an integral part of the 2024 New Brunswick Election and Social Media strategy for all major parties. Each party’s advertising budget and strategy varied, impacting voter turnout and overall success. New Brunswick Liberals: The Liberal Party spent heavily on Meta advertising, focusing almost entirely on Susan Holt’s personal Facebook profile. They spent $52,300 on ads through her account during the writ period, with only $491 from their official page. By centralizing their social media strategy around Holt, the Liberals were able to build trust and connect with voters on a personal level, which likely contributed to their substantial gains in urban centers like Saint John (27% vote increase), Fredericton (23%), and Moncton (16%). Progressive Conservatives: The PCs, under Blaine Higgs, adopted a dual approach, splitting their Meta ad spend between Higgs’s profile ($23,200) and the party’s official page ($30,400). Despite nearly matching the Liberal budget, their divided focus may have diminished the personal connection that Holt was able to create with voters. Ultimately, the PCs won 16 ridings, but Higgs’s loss of his seat in Quispamsis was a significant blow to the party. Green Party: The Green Party spent much less on social media advertising, with $1,100 from leader David Coon’s profile and $907 from the party’s official handle. Although they secured two ridings, their limited investment highlights the challenges smaller parties face in gaining widespread traction without larger ad budgets. Types of Ads in the 2024 New Brunswick Election and Social Media Campaign In the 2024 New Brunswick Election and Social Media landscape, the types of ads each party used played a major role in defining their public image and outreach strategy: Liberals: The Liberals centered their social media strategy around leader Susan Holt, with video content and personal messages playing a key role in their campaign. The focus on Holt’s leadership and vision for the future of New Brunswick connected with voters, particularly in urban areas, where the Liberals saw significant gains. Progressive Conservatives: The PCs leaned heavily on policy-focused ads and negative messaging aimed at the Liberals. They ran a series of “Contrast” ads to highlight policy differences, with Blaine Higgs appearing in video ads to discuss his plans for New Brunswick. Despite these efforts, the split focus between policy content and attack ads may have hampered their success. Green Party: The Greens focused on static graphics promoting their platform on environmental sustainability and social justice. While this approach resonated with their core supporters, the lack of dynamic content and lower investment in Meta advertising limited their ability to grow their voter base. Analyzing the Impact of Meta Advertising on the 2024 New Brunswick Election The impact of Meta advertising in the 2024 New Brunswick Election and Social Media campaigns was unmistakable. The Liberal Party’s choice to consolidate its social media spend through Susan Holt’s personal profile was a successful strategy, helping them secure a majority government. The Progressive Conservatives, despite their significant spending, failed to capture the same level of personal connection with voters, contributing to their reduced seat count. The Green Party, while continuing to secure important regional victories, lacked the financial resources to compete on the same level, demonstrating the challenges faced by smaller parties in the digital advertising space. What This Tells Us About Political Campaigns The 2024 New Brunswick Election and Social Media demonstrated the growing importance of social media platforms in modern political campaigns. By leveraging Meta advertising and focusing on personalized, targeted messaging, the parties were able to reach a broad audience. The Liberals’ success in urban areas, in particular, can be largely attributed to their focused and consistent use of social media to promote Susan Holt’s leadership. As we look to the future of political campaigns, the role of social media advertising will only continue to grow. Political parties that can harness the power of platforms like Facebook, and strategically allocate their advertising budgets, will have the upper hand in engaging voters and influencing election outcomes. Conclusion: The Future of Social Media Advertising in Canadian Political Campaigns The 2024 New Brunswick Election and Social Media advertising strategy revealed just how crucial online platforms have become in political campaigns. With Meta advertising allowing parties to engage voters directly and personalize their messaging, those who can effectively use social media will shape future political landscapes. As the digital age advances, political campaigns must prioritize strong, authentic online presences to stay competitive in the fast-evolving world of voter engagement.
In the recent B.C. election, political parties turned to digital marketing and Meta advertising on platforms like Facebook and Instagram to engage voters and communicate their messages. With online platforms becoming critical in political campaigns, how did social media advertising influence the final results? This blog post will take a quick dive into B.C. Election Results and Meta Advertising and examine how each party’s investment in online advertising correlated with their vote share as well as the nature of their ad campaign strategy. A Breakdown of the B.C. Election Results The initial count from Elections BC provided key insights into each party’s performance: BC Green Party: Leading in 2 electoral districts, with 166,863 votes and an 8.19% vote share. BC NDP: Leading in 46 districts, with 908,944 votes, representing 44.60% of the vote share. Conservative Party of BC: Leading in 45 districts, with 887,909 votes, accounting for 43.57% of the vote share. Each party had a unique approach to digital marketing and Meta advertising, which, when analyzed alongside their vote shares, offers a deeper understanding of the impact of their online strategies. B.C. Election Results and Meta Advertising Spending and Voter Engagement In the 30 days leading up to the election, each party invested in Meta advertising on Facebook and Instagram to reach voters: BC NDP: Spent $269,600 on Meta platforms and had 38,400 followers on Facebook. Conservative Party of BC: Spent $149,200 and had 18,700 followers on Facebook. BC Green Party: Spent $20,000 and had 19,200 followers on Facebook. At first glance, the BC NDP’s significant investment in Meta advertising aligns with their strong electoral performance. Their higher spending helped them secure a dominant 44.60% of the vote share, leading in 46 districts. This indicates that their robust online advertising strategy effectively reached and resonated with voters. The Conservative Party of BC also performed remarkably well with a lower ad spend compared to the BC NDP. Spending $149,200 on meta advertising, the party achieved a competitive 43.57% vote share, leading in 45 districts. This shows that while spending is important, strategic digital marketing campaigns can deliver strong results even with a moderate budget. The BC Green Party, while spending less on online advertising, managed to engage their core base and secure 8.19% of the vote share. With 19,200 Meta followers and a $20,000 spend, the Greens used targeted messaging and efficient use of their budget to maintain a significant presence in key electoral districts. Their strategy shows that even with a smaller budget, Meta advertising can amplify a party’s message and ensure representation in the election results. The Types of Ads Each Party Ran The Conservative Party of BC used a balanced mix of video and graphic content, with a focus on “Contrast” ads that directly compared their policies with those of the BC NDP. Regional promises, such as a new children’s hospital in Surrey, were backed by custom graphics, and they ran several negative ads targeting NDP leader David Eby. These attack ads echoed the style of the federal Conservatives’ critiques of Justin Trudeau, asserting that British Columbia couldn’t afford another four years of the NDP government. The BC NDP also took an innovative approach to their digital marketing. They ran extensive video content featuring local candidates and a sophisticated Get Out The Vote (GOTV) campaign. Ads with the theme “Ready to vote?” linked voters to nearby voting stations, offering a clear call to action. Their strategy also included attack ads targeting the BC Green Party, suggesting that the Greens might support the Conservatives, likely a tactic to consolidate the progressive vote under the NDP and avoid a split with the Greens. The BC Green Party relied on a consistent message that focused on policy-driven content and community engagement, capitalizing on its existing base through focused digital outreach. The Correlation Between Spending and Vote Share The spending data and electoral performance suggest a positive correlation between meta advertising spend and vote share, but the success of a campaign also depends on the strength of the message, voter demographics, and other outreach efforts. The BC NDP’s heavy investment helped them maintain their lead, but the Conservative Party of BC demonstrated that targeted digital marketing can still yield a significant vote share with lower spending. The BC Green Party’s approach highlights that a smaller budget doesn’t mean diminished impact. Their focus on efficiently leveraging their resources to engage a specific audience resulted in a noteworthy vote share, despite less overall spending compared to the major parties. This underlines the importance of a tailored online advertising strategy for reaching and mobilizing voters. What This Means for Future Elections As the role of online advertising continues to grow in political campaigns, future elections will likely see even more investment in Meta advertising. Parties will need to balance spending with a clear, engaging message that resonates with voters. While larger budgets provide a wider reach, thoughtful strategy, targeted messaging, and understanding of voter needs will be the real drivers of success. For political parties, the B.C. election shows that effective digital marketing on platforms like Facebook and Instagram can be a game-changer, not just for large parties but for those with more modest budgets too. Conclusion The B.C. election and the use of online advertising highlight the critical role that online advertising plays in modern political campaigns. While spending is an important factor, the effectiveness of a campaign ultimately comes down to strategic messaging, targeted outreach, and meaningful voter engagement. As digital platforms become increasingly important in elections, parties that invest wisely in digital marketing will continue to see strong results at the ballot box.
