The Michael J. Fox television spots supporting candidates in the American-terms have garnered a ton of media attention in addition to the impact the spots are likely having in the markets where they are being shown as paid ads.
Offal News has already taken a look at one of them and we linked to it earlier.
There are actually three, each one superbly lit, produced, written an performed. Take a look at all three. Notice, among other things that the core message is the same in all three but the way the message is communicated is radically different. They are quiet and relatively low-key, compared to the negative stuff that is almost cliche.
The Missouri spot is pitched very locally to a state full of independently-minded people.
The Maryland spot is another matter, appealing more generally to voters. It ends with a "respectful" call to action.
The Wisconsin gubernatorial spot starts by connecting with local pride: "Wisconsin holds a special place in my heart..."
Notice, as well, that Fox makes some very specific statements intended to counteract Republican attacks pre-emptively. He also links stem cell research to a variety of medical conditions other than his own Parkinsons.
No wonder the Republicans are literally screaming invective and personal hatred at Fox. These spots are compelling. In states where the races are tight, Fox might tip the balance in favour of the Democrats. In other states - even ones not targeted by Fox - the GOP candidates are having severe troubles with voter anger over everything from scandals involving Republican politicians to the war in what some American reporters call "Eye-raq". Given the buzz around these spots, Fox could tip the balance in races other than the ones he has specifcally helped.
Claire McCaskill (D), Missouri senate race
Ben Cardin (D), Maryland senate race
Jim Doyle (D), Wisconsin gubernatorial race