Social Media and Politics
Fred SolopProfessor and Chair
Department of Politics &International AffairsNorthern Arizona University
May 20, 2009
• Social Media Overview• Social Media and Politics–Network Theory–Digital Natives vs. Digital
Immigrants• Barack Obama
Web 2.0
Sedona Restaurants
Old Media:
New Media:
New York Magazine, April 28,
2009
Facebook Twitter LinkedIn
Social Media and Politics
“Everything touches everything.” Luis Victor Burges
Digital ImmigrantsVersus
Digital Natives
Milestones in Politics on the Internet
1994: White House goes on-line w/ website
1996: First presidential campaign websites
2000: First binding Internet Election
2000: McCain raises $1 million w/in 48 hrs of NH primary.
• Direct, unfiltered access to public• Free media (Inform voters)• Raise funds• Organize Volunteers• Incite interest and excitement• Market segmentation• Hyper networking/Connect Supporters
Web 2.0 and U.S. Campaigns
Obama Campaign