Paying for Politics: Creators in Controversy with Julian Sarafian

10/01/24 • 42 min

In this episode of Branding Democrats, we are joined by Julian Sarafian, a unique voice at the intersection of law, politics, and content creation. Julian, a lawyer for content creators and a content creator himself, shares his journey from a high-powered law firm to becoming a champion for digital creators navigating predatory contracts, defamation suits, and the ever-changing landscape of social media.
We begin the episode with a conversation on the ethical and legal challenges surrounding paying influencers for political content. Julian addresses recent controversies about influencers being paid for political endorsements and highlights the legal loopholes that enable a lack of transparency. We discuss the differences between campaign compensation and consumer advertising, and Julian critiques the Federal Election Commission’s lax rules for political content.
The episode then shifts to Ken’s concerns about Kamala Harris' current messaging strategy on issues like immigration and the economy. Julian suggests that Democrats need to go on the offensive and reshape the narrative to counter Republican claims.
We wrap up the episode with predictions for the upcoming VP debate, discussing how Walz might perform against Vance, who is notoriously unpopular with the public. As we look ahead to the final month before the election, we emphasize the importance of reaching out to voters in swing states and making a final push to get out the vote.

To hear more from Julian:
TIKTOK/IG: @juliansarafian

Want to be a part of the Branding Democrats Community?
Follow us on our social media👇👇👇

Instagram: @brandingdems

TikTok: @brandingdems

Twitter: @brandingdems

Email g [email protected] if you’d like to be a guest on our show.

To hear more from Julian:
TIKTOK/IG: @juliansarafian

Want to be a part of the Branding Democrats Community?
Follow us on our social media👇👇👇

Instagram: @brandingdems

TikTok: @brandingdems

Twitter: @brandingdems

Email g [email protected] if you’d like to be a guest on our show.

Previous Episode

Finding Humor in the Madness with Tatum Price

In this episode of Branding Democrats, we are joined by stand-up comedian and TikTok content creator Tatum Price, known as @senoritafancypants, to discuss how political messaging is evolving as we dive deeper into the election cycle. Tatum shares her journey into politics, her unique approach to political satire on TikTok, and the challenges of navigating the platform's algorithm—especially as a creator focused on progressive content.
We begin the episode by exploring how Kamala Harris can reach moveable voters who are tired of Trump but hesitant about Democrats. We debate the effectiveness of negative Trump messaging versus positive Kamala-Walz branding, highlighting what resonates best with undecided voters.
The conversation shifts to the economy, Kamala’s plan to build an opportunity economy, and how Democrats can reframe their narrative to be seen as the party that fights for everyday Americans. With the presidential debate around the corner, we offer predictions on how Kamala can stand out against Trump and discuss key strategies for Democrats to capitalize on this moment.
We wrap up the episode by discussing the role of laughter in politics. As a comedian, Tatum shares how making light of what’s going on helps people feel less anxious about the news. She also highlights how she uses humor to point out the hypocrisies of Trump and the Republican Party.
To hear more from Tatum: @senoritafancypants

Want to be a part of the Branding Democrats Community?
Follow us on our social media👇👇👇

Instagram: @brandingdems

TikTok: @brandingdems

Twitter: @brandingdems

Email g [email protected] if you’d like to be a guest on our show.

Next Episode

Laughing Through the Madness with Maggie Reed

In this episode of Branding Democrats, we are joined by the hilarious Maggie Reed, better known as @mermaidmamamaggie on TikTok. Maggie shares how she blended her love for theater and politics to create viral political satire, starting during the pandemic. She discusses the power of humor in shaping political messages and the challenges of staying positive in the face of hostility and misinformation.
The conversation delves into Kamala Harris’s media strategy, the upcoming election, and the key role content creators play in voter engagement. Maggie offers sharp critiques of GOP misinformation, touching on topics such as FEMA funding, climate change, and the dangerous narratives that Trump and his supporters push. We explore Trump’s history of deceit, the GOP’s refusal to address the climate crisis, and the importance of messaging around Democratic values leading up to the election.
In the second half, we discuss the dangers of Trump’s cultish following, his influence on the erosion of American institutions, and the urgent need for Republicans to reject MAGA extremism. The episode touches on Project 2025, the implications of a Trump presidency, and the need for Democrats to push back on misinformation and promote a positive vision for the future.
Tune in for Maggie’s take on the absurdity of American politics, along with some thoughtful reflections on what’s at stake in the 2024 election.

Want to be a part of the Branding Democrats Community?
Follow us on our social media👇👇👇

Instagram: @brandingdems

TikTok: @brandingdems

Twitter: @brandingdems

Email g [email protected] if you’d like to be a guest on our show.