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.
