Democrats ask social media influencers for help spreading their message.
Welcome to Boston Post News, where we bring you the latest updates on the dynamic world of politics and social media. In the fast-paced realm of online influence, Democrats are harnessing the power of social media influencers in their quest for the White House.
One such trailblazer is Awa Sanneh, a TikTok sensation known for her beauty tips. With a half-million followers, Sanneh captured the attention of the online community when she shared a video of her visit to the White House bathroom, marveling at the marble surroundings.
Sanneh was among a select group of influencers invited to the White House to witness the State of the Union address and meet President Biden. Reflecting on the experience, she revealed that President Biden acknowledged the collective reach of Gen Z viewership that influencers like her possess, surpassing traditional media outlets.
For Sanneh, this journey began with a viral video addressing the fall of Roe v. Wade. Democratic Super PACs and the Biden administration took notice, inviting her to White House briefings on critical issues such as abortion rights and reproductive health.
On the opposing end of the spectrum, Turning Point USA has long engaged influencers in promoting their cause, raising substantial funds for their initiatives. In response, Democratic organizations are stepping up by engaging creators with financial support and exclusive access.
Rob Flaherty, a key figure in digital strategy for the Biden White House and Vice President Kamala Harris’s campaign, emphasized the importance of collaborating with influencers to reach a broader audience. Providing influencers with resources, guidance, and essential information, Flaherty highlighted Vice President Harris’s appeal as a meme-friendly figure that resonates with online communities.
While the Harris campaign does not directly compensate influencers, other Democratic entities such as Future Forward, a super PAC backing Harris, have hosted events and incentivized influencers to spread their message. Protect Our Care, a progressive advocacy group, enlisted Sanneh to produce content highlighting the dangers of a potential second term for Trump.
Sanneh’s engagement with political organizations involves scripting content in her voice while maintaining transparency about her financial relationships. She acknowledged the potential earnings of influencers like herself, noting the range of compensation for content creation.
Despite regulations mandating disclosure for commercial endorsements, political messaging by influencers falls into a gray area with limited requirements. Sam Woolley, an expert in Disinformation Studies, pointed out the strategic use of influencers by campaigns to convey authenticity, although coordinated messaging may raise suspicions among viewers.
Looking ahead, Sanneh and her fellow influencers are gearing up for the Democratic National Convention, where they have been granted the opportunity to produce content and showcase their creativity. Embracing the support from the Democrats, Sanneh expressed her excitement about the possibilities that lie ahead.
Join us at Boston Post News as we delve into the evolving landscape of political campaigning and the instrumental role of social media influencers in shaping public opinion. Stay tuned for more updates on this captivating intersection of technology, media, and democracy.
