Editorial: Social media changed political landscape

Hawke's Bay Today News Editor James Ford. PHOTO / File.

Yesterday marked one year since Donald Trump was elected the 45th president of the United States.

It was one of the most memorable and controversial elections of all time.

Never before had we seen voters so passionate about two very different and polarising candidates.

While Hillary Clinton was polished and articulate, Trump was brash and bombastic.

Clinton followed the standard mould that we'd all become accustomed to, as Trump tore up the playbook.

It offered a perfect example of how politics has changed, possibly, for good.

It was the first time social media played such an integral role, while continuing to offer a platform for the war of words around the clock 12 months later.

Facebook, YouTube, and Trump's personal favourite, Twitter, allows politicians to speak directly to voters without spending a cent.

Campaigns can go viral as like-minded voters share information while users can also receive direct feedback.

Not to mention what maybe the biggest kicker of all - it unlocks the door to young voters.

Since the election, Trump's use of twitter has been heavily criticised.

Some labelled his 140 (now 280) character blasts as unpresidential.

He responded as you'd expect, on Twitter, of course, in an audacious, or, some may argue, reckless manner.

"My use of social media is not Presidential - it's MODERN DAY PRESIDENTIAL. Make America Great Again!"

Trump has lashed his opponents continually on Twitter, and his quips trend like wildfire.
'Little Marco' (Marco Rubio), 'Lyin' Ted' (Ted Cruz), and even 'Crooked Hilary' (Hilary Clinton).

Is it a dumbing down of politics?
Arguably.

Is it disrespectful to opponents?
Certainly.

But the political landscape has changed.

Social media is king of a world full of soundbites, and with politicians boasting millions of followers, it won't be dethroned anytime soon