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Video Element Requirements for Ellen's 5th District Congressional Campaign Videos

Ellen, as you prepare campaign videos for Illinois' 5th District with a focus on unity and bridging divides, understanding the requirements for video elements is essential. These vary significantly between social media (organic posts or paid ads on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X, Truth Social, Rumble) and television broadcast (FCC-regulated stations, cable, satellite).

Key differences stem from:

  • FEC rules (disclaimers for all paid/authorized communications).
  • FCC rules (specific to broadcast TV, cable, satellite for political ads).
  • Platform technical specs (aspect ratios, lengths, formats for optimal viewing and ads).

Important notes:

  • Organic videos (unpaid posts) on social media generally need only basic FEC disclaimers if from your authorized committee (e.g., "Paid for by Ellen for Congress").
  • Paid ads (boosted/promoted) require full disclaimers and platform verification post-FEC filing.
  • Television has stricter FCC-mandated on-screen and audio disclaimers, plus "stand by your ad" rules for candidate-authorized spots.
  • Technical specs for social media are flexible but optimized for mobile/vertical viewing in 2025-2026.
  • No strict technical specs (e.g., resolution) from FEC/FCC—focus on clarity and compliance.

Here's a comparison table:

Aspect Social Media (Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X, Truth Social, Rumble) Television Broadcast (FCC-regulated: Broadcast TV, Cable, Satellite)
Disclaimer - Written Must be clear and conspicuous; for videos, visible at least 4 seconds without user action (e.g., end screen). Text: "Paid for by Ellen for Congress" (or similar for authorized). No strict size % required. Must appear at end: letters ≥4% of vertical picture height, for ≥4 seconds, with color contrast. Full sponsor ID (e.g., "Paid for by Ellen for Congress").
Disclaimer - Audio/Spoken Not required (no "stand by your ad" for internet). Optional for emphasis. Required for candidate-authorized ads: Candidate must speak: "I'm Ellen [Last Name], and I approve this message" (or similar), identifying candidate and office sought. For unauthorized: Spoken " [Sponsor] is responsible for the content of this advertising."
Disclaimer - Visual Elements No mandatory candidate image. Can be text overlay, end card, or lower-third. For authorized ads: Must include clearly identifiable static image of the candidate (full-screen or prominent).
Length Restrictions Platform-dependent: Shorts/Reels 15-60s optimal; longer videos up to 10+ min supported. No regulatory cap. No strict cap, but practical: 10-60s common for spots. Stations may limit based on inventory.
Aspect Ratio / Format Vertical (9:16, e.g., 1080x1920) preferred for mobile/Reels/Shorts; square (1:1) or horizontal (16:9) also work. MP4 recommended. Horizontal (16:9 standard); HD (1920x1080) or 4K common. Must meet station specs (e.g., no black bars).
Resolution / Quality 1080p minimum recommended; platforms compress automatically. High quality required; stations specify broadcast standards (e.g., ATSC for digital TV).
Other Key Requirements Platforms may require ad verification post-FEC filing (e.g., Meta/Google libraries). Organic: Minimal rules. Paid: Targeting disclosures in some cases. Reasonable access for federal candidates; lowest unit charge in pre-election windows; no censorship of candidate ads; political file public inspection.
Applicability Applies to paid ads and committee communications; organic less strict. Applies to all political ads; stricter for broadcast/cable/satellite.

Recommendations for Ellen's campaign videos:

  • Start with social media: Use vertical formats for engagement (e.g., Reels/Stories/Shorts) to share unity messages. Add simple end-screen disclaimers now (pre-FEC filing) and upgrade post-filing.
  • For TV (future): Produce in 16:9 HD with candidate on camera for approval statement—record the spoken disclaimer separately if needed.
  • Always include: Candidate name, "for Congress - 5th District," and unifying tagline.
  • Consult a compliance expert or FEC resources before paid TV or boosted social ads.

This setup keeps your message inclusive and compliant while maximizing reach in Chicago and the 5th District.

Original Author: drnothing

Views: 5 (Unique: 5)

Page ID ( Copy Link): page_6974f7ea36f321.54845581-4265bdba3b21c4d5

Page History (1 revisions):

  • 2026-01-24 16:48:42 (Viewing)