The Influence of New Media in Local Elections

Abstract

The objective of this academic article is to highlight the importance of new media in local elections, given the changes in political structures, technological advancements, and the enfranchisement of voters. Candidates and political parties need to employ strategies to garner electoral support, focusing on the use of social media in both political and non-political contexts, in order to create an image for themselves and their parties. This demonstrates the perspective of new political options and the use of new media that can effectively engage eligible voters, allowing them to stay connected to political news and information online. Currently, in the arena of local elections, politicians and political parties compete to create viral trends in the online world by utilizing compelling content such as photographs, videos, and contemporary typographic styles. They communicate through platforms that provide widespread access to eligible voters, covering various geographical areas. The use of appropriate media that suits the context of each local election stage generates momentum, eventually leading to public opinion or news and becoming a medium for two-way communication between politicians, political parties, and eligible voters. This has an influence on eligible voters' perceptions, generating interest, evaluating options, and leading to the decision-making process in politics, which ultimately involves choosing candidates and political parties.