Meaning: This quote by Wes Boyd, an activist and co-founder of the progressive organization MoveOn.org, addresses the Democratic Party's lack of understanding and effective utilization of the internet during political campaigns. The quote highlights the party's failure to recognize the potential of the internet as a powerful tool for communication, fundraising, and mobilizing support.

During the late 20th century and early 21st century, the internet emerged as a transformative force in various aspects of life, including politics. It provided a platform for political parties and candidates to reach a wider audience, engage with voters, and raise funds. However, as Boyd suggests, the Democratic Party initially failed to grasp the significance of the internet and its potential for transforming political campaigns.

Boyd's assertion that the Democratic Party "treated [the internet] like free money" reflects the party's initial passive and complacent attitude toward the internet. Rather than recognizing the internet as a dynamic and interactive tool for engaging with voters and donors, the party may have viewed it as a convenient source of easy and effortless financial support. This perspective indicates a lack of strategic vision and understanding of the internet's capabilities as a means of communication and mobilization.

Furthermore, Boyd's observation that the Democratic Party "kept on doing all the rest of the things they normally do" underscores a resistance to change and a reluctance to adapt to the evolving landscape of political communication and campaigning. Instead of embracing the internet as a new and powerful medium, the party continued with traditional campaign strategies and methods, failing to leverage the full potential of digital technologies.

Boyd's critique is particularly significant in the context of the early 2000s, a period marked by the rapid expansion of internet usage and the emergence of social media platforms. During this time, the Republican Party and conservative groups, such as MoveOn.org, demonstrated a greater aptitude for harnessing the internet to mobilize support, organize grassroots movements, and raise funds. This discrepancy in utilizing digital platforms had a significant impact on the political landscape, as it allowed conservative voices to gain prominence and influence online discourse.

In response to the Democratic Party's shortcomings, Boyd and others within the progressive movement recognized the untapped potential of the internet and sought to fill the gap. Organizations like MoveOn.org and individuals like Howard Dean, a Democratic presidential candidate in 2004, embraced innovative online strategies to connect with supporters, raise funds, and build momentum for progressive causes. Their efforts demonstrated the transformative power of the internet in reshaping political engagement and fundraising.

Ultimately, Wes Boyd's quote serves as a critique of the Democratic Party's initial failure to grasp the transformative potential of the internet in political campaigning. It highlights the importance of adapting to technological advancements and leveraging digital platforms to effectively communicate with voters and mobilize support. The quote also underscores the significance of recognizing and embracing new tools and strategies to remain competitive and relevant in the evolving landscape of political communication and activism.

In conclusion, Wes Boyd's quote encapsulates the Democratic Party's initial struggle to understand and effectively utilize the internet in political campaigning. It serves as a reminder of the importance of embracing technological advancements and adapting strategies to engage with voters and mobilize support in a rapidly changing digital landscape.