Now more than ever, the race for the presidential hot seat in 2016 is decided by social media platforms and those who use social media sites constantly. More and more, presidential candidates are relying on a social media presences to draw voters. This is especially true considering millennials will be an important segment of the voting population in the upcoming election.
Major uproar was caused this week when Jeb Bush tweeted a picture of his gun. The gun was emblazoned with “Gov. Jeb Bush” and he proudly used the caption “America” to describe his weapon. Many took exception to the tweet and reprimanded the presidential candidate for his lack of judgement when tweeting the photo. Yet, many agreed with the picture, which helped illustrate the current divide that is going on in the country because of this political election.
Further divide can arise anytime presidential elect Donald Trump sends out a tweet to his followers. The bombastic candidate frequently uses Twitter to tout his own poll numbers or to take down his opponents. However, the past week illustrated that Trump can create his own controversies on Twitter, whether it through his arguments with the Pope or his attacks on Jeb Bush.
Even on the Democratic side, Bernie Sanders supporters take to social media to exemplify the positives of their chosen candidate. They tweet or Facebook meme’s that give examples of Bernie’s connection with the younger generation compared to Hillary Clinton.
While all these online social campaigns exist, one must ask what effect they have on the candidates. No actual numbers may be attributed until after specific dates and further more may be added on until the actual date so it would be inaccurate do describe the amount of supporters at the recent Equality Rally.
We live in a world where social media will play a considerable role in the presidential outcome. No matter who you vote for, the younger voter must understand the ramifications of their actions.