Drake’s “In My Feelings” Inspires Politician’s Campaign Outreach

A politician in Little Rock is mining the summer’s biggest viral sensation as the way to connect with younger voters. Edmond Davis, a former history instructor at Arkansas Baptist College, rounded up some fresh faces, hit play on superstar rapper Drake’s “In My Feelings,” and recorded his version of the dance that’s become one of most popular challenges on the internet.

“I got the initial idea from my wife, who said, ‘Why not do that KiKi Challenge?’” Davis recalled. “I was thinking, ‘Who is KiKi.’ I can’t dance, but I know some millennials who are into it and can do it. I was a professor for 15 years, and so I reached out to my students.”

Both Davis and his wife are educators.

“I just noticed it trending throughout the cyberworld,” Monica Davis said. “I love the energy of our youth and so the most important aspect is to make sure they are connected. Once that was brought to their attention, they took over, and we were just appearing. We showed up and did exactly what they told us to do. We were the students, and they were the teachers.”

Drake is breaking music records with his latest release, and Davis hopes to make some history on November 6th when voters go to the polls. He is campaigning to serve as Little Rock City Director, Ward 7.  The Grambling State University graduate faces an incumbent of 24 years and two other opponents.

“I see myself as a community investor, and I use politics as a way to get things done,” Davis said.

Celebrities have filmed themselves in some of the world’s most well-known locations doing their interpretation of “In My Feelings”. Actor Will Smith questions the legality of climbing a bridge in Budapest for his performance. Seattle Seahawks quarterback, Russell Wilson, and his wife, R&B singer Ciara, climbed out of a SUV in South Africa to show their moves. But it’s not only stars choosing exotic locations, all around the country fans of the song are bailing out of cars to dance, leading police in some cities to issue warnings.

Davis and his campaign volunteers played it safe, filming at three locations including the Arkansas State Capitol. The video is generating its share of likes, and Davis is giving his students their credit.

“All of these young people put their ideas together, they were creative, and they sacrificed to put it together,” he said. “And, we’re pleased to have young people involved in our campaign.”