The 2016 US Presidential race has, thus far, been over a year of near-constant, headline-making bedlam and chaos. Vitriol slung this way and that, extremist terms being thrown around in discussion and Chrome extensions meant to get users away from all of the craziness have become completely normal as the United States makes its way to the highly contested election season. The launch of Pokemon GO has been somewhat of a microcosm of this, making headlines in both good and bad ways that expose human nature, how we relate to technology and just how far some people are willing to go to catch ’em all. It’s only natural that these two things would eventually come together, and Hillary Clinton has made it so.
Getting in on the new craze sweeping the nation, the Democratic candidate has announced that an upcoming campaign event, coincidentally set to take place at a site with a PokeStop and a gym, will have some Pokemon-themed amenities to help attract more potential voters, as well as Pokemon GO players who would otherwise have no interest in politics, and even kids. While one on one battles and trading aren’t implemented yet, the PokeStop at the event space, being Madison Park in Lakewood, Ohio, will have a lure module going constantly, courtesy of the Clinton campaign. With such a huge number of players sure to be there, people using incense is likely inevitable as well, which will result in a massive gathering of Pokemon as well as people.
The kicker to all of this is the fact that such a huge event, usually full of supporters, protesters, and casual listeners, will happen at a site where a gym is in reach. While there has been talk of snuffing animosity between the three teams in the game, all-out PokeWar is entirely likely to break out and last for the duration of the event, if not longer. The event will take place between 1 and 2 PM on July 16. If you happen to be in the area, have the free time to attend, and are a Pokemon master in the making, it may be worth your while to go represent your team, or at least take advantage of the lure to nab some Pokemon.