Social Media Bringing The Sideliners Into Politics
Being active in politics used to mean knocking on doors, handing out paraphernalia, making phone calls and other time consuming but vital activities. Social media has changed all of that. As traditional media continues to struggle, politicians are relying more heavily on free internet tools to disseminate their message and reach constituents. However, a politician can only go as far as his supporters will take them on the internet. Meaning a major player in social media is just as important to a campaign as an activist on the ground.
Let’s look at three groups of people that are benefiting from social media:
Don’t have the time. Most adults who work and have families don’t have the time to help with the ground part of a campaign. Those people can now get online and help spread the candidate’s message from the comfort of their homes in under an hour.
Uncomfortable being vocal. Being open about your political views is something that many people are uncomfortable talking about and showing. Social media allows those people to voice their opinions while remaining anonymous.
Youth. Politics is seen as an adult game that people under 18 should not be”actively” involved in. Partaking in politics as a young person is not the most popular hobby for teens and often comes with the label of “weird” or “obsessed.” However, a recent PEW survey found signs that social media may be encouraging the younger generation to participate politics.
Blogs, facebook and twitter have enfranchised a new group of political activists previously relegated to the sidelines.
-Chris Walling, Political Editor