Alabama - Imitation Is the Sincerest Form of Flattery in Political Advertising
In this case, that standard was set in Alabama by a guy who owned a trash business and made his way to Congress.
A recently released campaign advertisement from Kentucky U.S. Senate candidate Nate Morris is drawing attention for its familiar theme. The ad, titled “Garbage Day,” features Morris riding on a garbage truck while pledging to clean up Washington.
The Morris ad can be viewed at this link or below.
For Alabama political observers, the imagery is immediately recognizable.
The concept closely mirrors the “DC Garbage” campaign introduced in 2020 by Barry Moore, which used a plainspoken, work-focused message to draw a sharp contrast between everyday Americans and career politicians in Washington.
Moore’s original 2020 “DC Garbage” ad can be viewed here:
The idea resonated deeply with voters. Barry Moore was first elected to Congress during a run-off in July of 2020. In 2024, Congressman Moore’s team refined the concept, producing an updated version that earned a national Telly Award, one of the most respected honors in television and video production.
The Telly Awards recognized Heather Moore, Barry Moore’s wife, for excellence in writing, and Jonathan Barbee, Alabama-based political strategist, for directing the award-winning spot. The 2024 Telly Award–winning ad can be viewed here:
In creative industries, imitation is often described as the sincerest form of flattery. When a campaign concept earns national recognition and begins to reappear in races beyond state lines, it serves as confirmation that the original set the standard.
In this case, that standard was set in Alabama by a guy who owned a trash business and made his way to Congress.
Congressman Moore is now running for the U.S. Senate and recently received an endorsement from President Donald Trump for the May 19th election.
Fun Fact: in 2024 Donald Trump pulled up to an event in a garbage truck, signaling he was going to take out the trash in D.C.
