When Old Meets New
Start writing a post
Politics and Activism

When Old Meets New

Importance of the Bernie Sanders Campaign dominating social media

10
When Old Meets New
Mother Jones

The year 2016 has brought many changes to America, whether it be social, economic, or political. And the presidential election in about six months. One of the most defining characteristics of this election has been the use of social media (Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter etc.) by the candidates. Whether it be promoting their campaigns or launching attacks on opponents, candidates have taken full advantage of the wide-reaching power of social media. However, the most important aspect of social media isn't so much the content itself, but the followers who engage with the content. And in my mind one candidate has stood out in that category. At 74 years old, Bernie Sanders is probably not thought of as being very social media savvy. Nevertheless, he has not only gathered a large following, but has been extremely effective in encouraging his supporters to take to social media in spreading his message.

While many of you might be asking, "Who cares? Successful social media strategies don't win elections." You're partially correct, social media is definitely not the end-all be-all of an election. But it does indicate their success with millennials, the primary users of social media, who will play a crucial role in the upcoming election. Social media offers candidates insight into what communication strategies work and what ideas/issues are important to voters. After all, it is the voters opinions that truly matter in the election.

The Bernie Sanders' campaign has done an incredible job in using social media to its advantage. Sanders' revolutionary ideas, especially those concerning free college have captured the attention of millions of millennials. In turn, the Sanders campaign understands that the best way to not only maintain the support of these young democratic voters is to take to social media. And due to the "sharing" culture created by social media this causes a chain reaction in which those supporters naturally promote Sanders material. Secondly, due to the mainstream media's infatuation with Donald Trump and Hilary Clinton, Sanders is frequently ignored. But social media gives Sanders supporters an outlet in which they can literally "follow" the candidate, interact with him directly, and get an inside look at his campaign. Therefore, whether you are a Sanders supporter or not it is nearly impossible to log onto your Twitter or Facebook and not see a post promoting Bernie Sanders. This engagement is not only vital to his success thus far, but is an indication of the evolution of politics.

As a current college student and proud millennial, I can say that I love the fact that politics has taken over news feeds around the globe. It spreads social and political awareness across the country and gives many users no choice but to stay informed. This movement also creates a platform that allows younger people to interact with candidates in a more intimate way, which all voters enjoy. So, well done, Mr. Sanders. No matter the outcome, you have truly changed the game of politics.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

47148
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less
a man and a woman sitting on the beach in front of the sunset

Whether you met your new love interest online, through mutual friends, or another way entirely, you'll definitely want to know what you're getting into. I mean, really, what's the point in entering a relationship with someone if you don't know whether or not you're compatible on a very basic level?

Consider these 21 questions to ask in the talking stage when getting to know that new guy or girl you just started talking to:

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

Challah vs. Easter Bread: A Delicious Dilemma

Is there really such a difference in Challah bread or Easter Bread?

29884
loaves of challah and easter bread stacked up aside each other, an abundance of food in baskets
StableDiffusion

Ever since I could remember, it was a treat to receive Easter Bread made by my grandmother. We would only have it once a year and the wait was excruciating. Now that my grandmother has gotten older, she has stopped baking a lot of her recipes that require a lot of hand usage--her traditional Italian baking means no machines. So for the past few years, I have missed enjoying my Easter Bread.

Keep Reading...Show less
Adulting

Unlocking Lake People's Secrets: 15 Must-Knows!

There's no other place you'd rather be in the summer.

954030
Group of joyful friends sitting in a boat
Haley Harvey

The people that spend their summers at the lake are a unique group of people.

Whether you grew up going to the lake, have only recently started going, or have only been once or twice, you know it takes a certain kind of person to be a lake person. To the long-time lake people, the lake holds a special place in your heart, no matter how dirty the water may look.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Top 10 Reasons My School Rocks!

Why I Chose a Small School Over a Big University.

168717
man in black long sleeve shirt and black pants walking on white concrete pathway

I was asked so many times why I wanted to go to a small school when a big university is so much better. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure a big university is great but I absolutely love going to a small school. I know that I miss out on big sporting events and having people actually know where it is. I can't even count how many times I've been asked where it is and I know they won't know so I just say "somewhere in the middle of Wisconsin." But, I get to know most people at my school and I know my professors very well. Not to mention, being able to walk to the other side of campus in 5 minutes at a casual walking pace. I am so happy I made the decision to go to school where I did. I love my school and these are just a few reasons why.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments