Johnsonville, the leading national sausage brand, along with Brian Baumgartner, renowned for his role in "The Office," extended a gesture of unity and relief to the politically saturated residents of Scranton, Pennsylvania on October 29, 2024. As part of the Swing State Sausage Support Plan, Johnsonville took a stand against the overwhelming political advertising campaigns burdening swing states, focusing particularly on Scranton, which saw an $81 million ad influx. The event, held at Lackawanna County Courthouse Square, offered free sausage, uniting Scranton residents who have become politically overserved amidst the election season.
Scranton, part of the Scranton-Wilkes Barre area, has been subject to $155.75 worth of political advertising per voting-age adult. This figure is remarkably 223% more than similar "Blue Wall" cities including Detroit, Milwaukee, Pittsburgh, and Grand Rapids, and higher than political spending per voter in major cities like New York, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Phoenix, and Las Vegas combined. With slogans like "Thank Sausage It's Almost Over," Johnsonville's initiative aimed to bring some levity and togetherness back to Scranton, while also promoting their "Keep It Juicy" campaign essence of reducing stress and enjoying life with others.
Brian Baumgartner helped bring warmth to the event, grilling sausages, engaging with attendees, and sharing a moment of community camaraderie. His connection to Scranton, coupled with an Honorary Certificate of Scrantology, made the occasion personal and meaningful: "When I saw the ad spending here, I had to do something fun for my favorite adopted city," Baumgartner shared, acknowledging the impact of the relentless political climate on local morale.
This initiative underscores Johnsonville's commitment to reducing tensions and fostering community engagement. Their recent "Keep It Juicy" campaign resonates with Americans weary of political mudslinging, evidenced by their National Temperature Check survey conducted by The Harris Poll. The findings revealed a widespread distaste for political advertising (72% dislike it), while a significant segment blocks political campaign texts (51%). Johnsonville's proactive approach to community support aligns with their objective of spreading positivity and inclusivity, both online and offline.
Johnsonville urges all to join the "Keep It Juicy" movement by following them on Instagram @Johnsonville and using the hashtag #KeepItJuicy. For those interested in the details of their National Temperature Check survey, it's important to know it was conducted online in late August 2024, among 2,092 U.S. adults, applying demographic balance through weighted data.
Johnsonville, established in 1945, continues its legacy as a family-owned company, producing over 80 sausage varieties sold throughout more than 40 countries. By reaching hundreds of markets, including 75 sports stadiums across the U.S., they remain dedicated to sharing the joy of exceptional sausage making worldwide, bringing communities closer together even amid challenging political periods.
