Right-Wing Group Exploits Emily Ratajkowski’s Image to Boost Voter Turnout Efforts

In a bold move to engage voters, Look Ahead America inundated 250,000 Wisconsin residents with eye-catching text messages ahead of a pivotal election. The messages featured provocative images: men received a bikini photo of supermodel Emily Ratajkowski, while women saw a shirtless man cuddling a puppy. This unconventional strategy aimed to pique interest before an important special election.

The result? Wisconsin voters approved a constitutional amendment requiring photo ID at the polls and elected a liberal candidate to the Wisconsin Supreme Court. Matt Braynard, the organization’s executive director, highlighted prior research showing that surprising visuals can bolster voter awareness. Although the effectiveness of this campaign remains unclear, Look Ahead America is keen to analyze outcomes in due time.

Despite its claim of nonpartisan existence, the group leaned towards conservative issues, aligning itself with causes resonant in rural America. Braynard defended the use of the images, citing “fair use” under public sharing guidelines, though this choice has sparked backlash. Photographer Mike Ruiz expressed his dismay, emphasizing that his work, which benefitted animals in need, shouldn’t be exploited for political aims.

As Wisconsin’s electoral landscape evolved, notable figures like Elon Musk also played roles, investing $25 million to support conservative judicial candidates, reflecting the high stakes of this election cycle.