Ok here's my basic strategy:
-First 20 turns I mainly fundraise and build HQs to develop an infrastructure and income. I create one level 3 outreach and one level 3 consulting firm so by the end of the campaign I have unlimited access to endorsements (though I only take the Democrat endorsements to avoid alienating the blue states) and political operatives.
-Once I have the VP money influx, I start plunking down TV ads in large states the I must hold (New York, California, Pennsylvania...etc). It should be noted that I always win these states, but sometimes just barely. McCain seems to do well in large blue states with minimal effort even though I destroy him on the issues, place smear merchants and spin doctors, AND spend much more money on ads there! What's going on??? It should not be hard for a Democrat to hold on to California with all these advantages!
-When I am out of money I give speeches in states where needed on issues that appeal to independents and liberals or to everyone. My TV ads do the same things, they are always geared towards: Improving the economy, Higher gas prices, The War on Terror, Universal Healthcare, Outsourcing, and The Environment. Using webmasters I can keep an unlimited number of TV ads going. I've had as many as 10 or so by the end of the campaign.
-Finally by the very end of the campaign I'm starting to even things out with McCain (who inexplicably starts with a 20 point lead in the polls). However, it is not enough to really overtake him and he usually eeks out a victory. I lose a few random blue states (though I win all the big important ones) and only win one or two red states (usually West Virginia and Louisiana which are easy pick ups because they are so one-issue oriented).
So if you could point out any flaws in my strategy or offer me some tips I would greatly appreciate it. 