6 Days Until Election Day: Maximizing Organic Reach on Social Media Now That Paid Ads Are Done

With only six days left until Election Day, campaigns are in the final stretch. Facebook and Instagram ads have officially stopped, leaving candidates to rely solely on organic reach for their final push. While that might sound limiting, it can actually open doors for powerful, grassroots-style strategies that resonate deeply with voters. Here are some effective techniques candidates can leverage to gain more views, engagement, and support without paid ads.

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1. Share Content on Local Community Pages

Many towns, neighborhoods, and groups have Facebook pages or groups dedicated to local happenings. Candidates or their supporters can share campaign content to these pages. Posts highlighting candidates’ dedication to the community, endorsements, or quick reminders about their stance on key issues can perform well here. Just make sure to tailor the message for each group, making it relevant and engaging to that particular community.

2. Rally Friends and Family to Share, Like, and Comment

One of the best ways to increase reach is by encouraging close supporters to interact with posts. Facebook’s algorithm favors content that gets engagement, especially comments and shares. By asking friends, family, and supporters to share posts to their own networks, candidates can tap into new audiences and increase exposure. Creating a “share day” or setting a goal to hit a specific number of shares per post can also inspire action among supporters.

3. Leverage User-Generated Content

Encourage supporters to post their own endorsements or reasons for voting on their own pages, tagging the candidate. This could be as simple as a selfie with a sign, a short testimonial video, or even a photo of them heading to vote. User-generated content feels authentic and relatable and can attract attention from others who trust their friends’ opinions.

4. Host a Facebook or Instagram Live Event

Live videos have great reach potential and create an opportunity for real-time interaction with voters. Hosting a final “Get Out the Vote” session, Q&A, or virtual rally can be powerful in making a personal connection. The event can cover what the candidate stands for, how people can vote, and address last-minute questions from undecided voters. Encourage viewers to share the live stream while it’s happening to get more eyes on the event.

5. Utilize Instagram Stories with Voting Reminders

While Instagram posts can only go so far, Stories offer another organic way to reach followers. Use Stories to provide a countdown, post voting information, or even re-share posts and user-generated content that supports the campaign. Polls, question stickers, or “this or that” posts can also boost engagement and give the campaign insight into voter sentiment in real time.

6. Encourage Followers to Use Campaign Hashtags

Developing a unique campaign hashtag and encouraging followers to use it can help create a buzz and unify the message across social media. Campaign hashtags make it easier for others to find related posts and can also add a sense of momentum and unity among supporters. Feature some of the best posts that use the hashtag to give supporters a little recognition and inspire more people to join in.

7. Lean Into Email Lists and Text Messaging

Even though social media ads are paused, email and SMS channels remain open. Now is a great time to send out a “6 Days Left” email, with information on where to vote, a brief recap of the candidate’s platform, and a reminder to share campaign posts on social media. Text messaging can also be used to direct supporters to the latest post, encouraging them to comment, like, and share as soon as it’s live.

8. Tap Into the Power of Video

Posts that include videos tend to perform better than static posts on Facebook and Instagram. Even a short video of the candidate speaking directly to voters, thanking supporters, or giving a heartfelt reminder about the importance of voting can make a strong impact. Encourage supporters to share the video, and try to make it feel genuine and direct. Videos can help convey urgency and excitement in a way that static posts often can’t.

9. Post a Last-Minute “Ask”

As the clock winds down, a personal post from the candidate can make a significant impact. A last-minute appeal, speaking directly to the community and urging them to vote, can help stir up motivation. This type of heartfelt “ask” should feel personal, with language that shows the candidate’s dedication to their community and an invitation to join them in making a difference.

10. Monitor Engagement and Interact with Comments

This is the time to be more active than ever. Campaigns should have someone dedicated to monitoring social media comments and responding where appropriate. Engaging with comments—even if it’s just liking supportive comments or briefly answering questions—can help keep the conversation going and encourage more people to chime in.

Final Thoughts

Even without paid ads, there are still plenty of ways for candidates to reach their supporters and motivate them to get out the vote. By building on community connections, relying on supporters, and making the campaign feel as personal as possible, candidates can still make a meaningful impact on social media during this critical final week. Let’s make these last six days count!