Shaping a Movement: Media Production for the Bernie Sanders 2020 Campaign
From Rally Recaps to Viral Moments: A Media Producer’s Role in Shaping a Campaign
What does it take to amplify a political movement and connect with millions? As part of the Bernie Sanders 2020 campaign, I had the chance to answer that through storytelling that inspired, informed, and mobilized.
Client
Bernie 2020 (Friends of Bernie Sanders)
Role
Media Producer
Core Skills
Storytelling Expertise, Audience-Centric Content Creation, Adaptability and Problem Solving, Leadership and Team Collaboration, Strategic Vision and Planning
Technical Skills
Post Production, Pre Production Management, Scriptwriting and Editing, Video Editing, Journalism, Video Production Oversight, Videography, Motion Graphics
The Vision
The vision was simple but ambitious: create media that not only informed supporters but made them feel part of a larger cause. Success meant producing content that drove action, built community, and resonated with a diverse, nationwide audience.
The Journey
Voices of the Movement
This series of short documentaries highlighted grassroots supporters and volunteers. I directed, filmed, and coordinated on-the-ground interviews, capturing raw, personal stories that showed the campaign’s impact beyond policies.
Endorsements & Calls to Action
Produced rally recaps and endorsements from surrogates and supporters of Senator Sanders which included campaign speeches that turned key moments into shareable, engaging media. These videos were crafted with tight turnarounds, often going from live event to published content within 24 hours.
Policy in Focus
To break down complex policy ideas, I supported the production of explainer videos that combined visuals, voiceovers, and on-screen text. These videos were designed for digital platforms, making them accessible and shareable for all supporters.
The Impact
The content produced reached millions across social media and contributed to significant audience engagement, with several videos becoming viral touchpoints for supporters. Key videos saw millions in views, and comments highlighted how these media pieces energized and informed voters.
Reflection
Producing for a campaign of this magnitude taught me the power of agility, strategic storytelling, and the importance of connecting policy to personal stories. This experience reinforced my belief that impactful media doesn’t just inform; it unites people around shared values.