Pew Internet

The article I chose from Pew Internet is about Americans using social networks and twitters for political campaigns. In the article it is stated that “22% of online adults used Twitter or social networking sites such as facebook or MySpace in the months leading up to the November, 2010 elections to connect to the campaign or the election itself.” With the use of social networks being used started in 2008 for the presidential elections the use of them grew tremendously for the 2010 elections. A reason why politicians are now starting to use social networks more is because of how demographically diverse both facebook and twitter are becoming. “The main reason Americans follow political groups on social networking sites or Twitter is that doing so helps them feel more personally connected to the candidates or groups they follow.” This quote makes perfect sense. Us Americans have gotten so used to making and keeping relationships over the Internet that we feel very attached with people online. Internet usage has become a norm for us. So any politician that uses technology stands out to us since we are not used to politicians using social networks as an advertising method. A candidate with technology experience and outreach could seem more versatile. With six out of ten adults being online with communication, it makes it easy for them to access the political advertisements being shown. They find it as an easy way to receive information on the campaign and that candidate along with posting their opinions on their favorite politicians. This could make it much easier for people to get involved with the campaign. In 2010, only 21% of adults used social networking sites to stay involved with the election. However, by the look of how things are progressing the number will grow greatly over the next few years.


http://www.pewinternet.org/Reports/2011/Politics-and-social-media.aspx