As someone who does communications and media relations consulting for a living, I can say without a doubt that Free Republic had a major impact. I got most of my campaign information here (as well as from the campaign directly) and forwarded the information I received here to hundreds of people. Folks were gratified to get the information without the media bias. I think Free Republic also brought like-minded individuals together and gave them a opportunity to be organized in their efforts. It also gave us an opportunity to support, console, and encourage one another. It was amazing to see a diverse group of people with the same political beliefs being so productive.