Running for president in the 21st century calls for a different kind of politician and especially, new forms of political geeks.  From all the blogs, commentary, stats, videos, websites, and news shows, a political junkie can get quickly overwhelmed.  With the election still churning along, here are some ways geeks can best support and learn about the candidates.

Social networking

Facebook and MySpace haves several groups, some official, some not, dedicated to the candidates.  You can be friends with all the candidates, receive updates about events, and meet other people who share your views.  Most impressive has been Barack Obama’s creation of his own social networking site, My Barack Obama, where you can create your own profile, blog, groups, etc. all dedicated to the one candidate, allowing the common voter to help organize other voters in their neighborhood as well as provide the campaign.

You Digg them

Ron Paul would be president right now if it was up to voters on Digg and Reddit.  The internet sensation had an army of loyal social bookmarking power users who propelled any news story about him to the top of popularity.  Didn’t do much to help his campaign (he did raise lots of money), but having fans who care that much has got to matter for something.  They even…

…Hold virtual world parties

Yes, Ron Paul would also be voted president of Azeroth.  On New Year’s, World of Warcraft fans held a rally for Ron Paul, the only candidate on the Azeroth ballot, I believe.  Several candidates like Obama and John Edwards created spaces on Second Life, but since there was no porn or gambling there, popularity didn’t ignite.  Nevertheless, dedicating the next raiding party of a candidate has got to be the best show of support.

User generated content

Blog from events, show off pictures, post videos on YouTube.  Instead of doing their own research, mainstream news networks love using user-generated videos and research (or lack there of) to mull over for hours on air.  This means you could get your 15 minutes of fame while supporting John McCain.  That’s my rap.