This upcoming election has turned social media into a constant war zone. Liberals and Conservatives are constantly attacking each other. "Trump will fix what's wrong with this country!" "Sanders will make college free and raise minimum wage!" It seems that no matter what side you're on, you're bound to get into some type of debate. For example, Twitter has become a huge platform for people to express their freedom of speech. You can say whatever you want about a candidate, positive or negative. But what really makes these tweets important is how they influence people's votes. Trump supporters are very vocal on Twitter. Just look at any hashtags involving Trump. The more defensive supporters will go out of the way just to defend or attack any anti-Trump voters. What fuels this behavior is Trump's very own tweets.
With his huge prevalence on social media, it isn't hard for Trump to stay relevant within the race for the Republican nomination. Another way Twitter is vital for candidates is the easy communication between users. By actually interacting with supporters and people unsure on who to vote, they allow themselves to appear as if they listen and care about what people are thinking.
What really puts candidates with an advantage is how they use their Twitter page. For example, each candidate will subtly throw jabs at their opposition, while maintaining their overall message. Bernie Sanders' Twitter page consists of what he wants to achieve, as well as defending his views and arguments. Although the pages themselves may not be run by the candidates, the Tweets might as well come from them as well. What's funny is that Trump's page is a mixture of hilarious yet offensive insults, as well as his overall message and goals for his campaign.
The main point that I'm trying to make is that social media really does influence people's decision. With Twitter and Facebook becoming pretty much news outlets, it's only a matter of time before voting for President will be done by Twitter polls. With so many people voicing their opinions on who should be the next President, I hope to see large voter turnouts. Tweeting alone won't win your candidate the seat in the White House. It is up to you to go and vote. Every vote counts. Complaining about how a certain candidate is doing better than yours won't really help the situation. Get involved with the political process and maybe you might find opportunities you may have never though of. Either way, whoever wins the upcoming election is only going to lose to the rap God Kanye West in 2020.
I think you make a great point here. Twitter is just an extension of a person's thoughts, and candidates aren't any different. So presidential candidates have an edge if they can balance successful attacks on foes while engaging with a wide voter pool.
ReplyDeleteAnd you're not the only one to include Mr. West 2020 in your post. I think this works, though. Because it's a warning to get involved--or else!