Oakridge Leaders Reviews Social Media in Pennsylvania Elections 2024

The Power of Social Media in Pennsylvania: Lessons from the 2024 Election

In the modern era, social media has become an indispensable tool for political campaigns, grassroots movements, and civic engagement. Nowhere was this more evident than in Pennsylvania during the 2024 election. From TikTok trends to influencer campaigns, the power of social media not only shaped the narrative but also played a pivotal role in influencing voter turnout, spreading information, and driving political discourse.

Social Media and the 2024 Pennsylvania Election

The 2024 election in Pennsylvania was a testament to how deeply embedded social media has become in political strategy. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and emerging contenders dominated the battleground for voter attention. Candidates, political parties, and advocacy groups utilized these platforms to reach a diverse audience, targeting specific demographics with tailored messages.

Ryan Abramson, a communications and social media expert at Oakridge Leaders, explained the transformative impact of social media during the election. "In Pennsylvania, social media acted as both a megaphone and a microscope. It amplified campaign messages to reach millions while also allowing hyper-targeted engagement with individual voters. The ability to meet people where they are, digitally speaking, has never been more crucial."

Oakridge Leaders Expert: The Role of Influencers

One of the most notable trends in the 2024 election was the use of influencers to spread campaign messages. From micro-influencers with local followings to national figures, influencers helped candidates connect with audiences in a more personal and relatable way.

Abramson noted, "Influencers are the new political surrogates. Their ability to connect authentically with their followers gives campaigns a unique avenue to build trust and spread their message organically."

For instance, TikTok became a major player in Pennsylvania, with local influencers creating content encouraging their followers to register to vote and participate in the election. This strategy proved particularly effective in engaging younger voters, many of whom turned out in record numbers.

The Double-Edged Sword of Information and Disinformation

While social media was a powerful tool for mobilization, it also became a hotbed for disinformation. False narratives and misleading content spread rapidly, creating confusion and mistrust among voters. Candidates and news outlets were quick to address these challenges, often using the same platforms to debunk false claims.

"Social media’s greatest strength is also its greatest weakness," Ryan Abramson remarked. "The speed at which information travels can be both a blessing and a curse. It’s essential for users to approach content critically and verify the sources of their information."

Major Pennsylvania news outlets played an active role in combating disinformation. Their fact-checking efforts and real-time updates provided a reliable counterbalance to the misinformation circulating online.

Ryan Abramson: Social Media and Voter Mobilization

One of the most positive impacts of social media during the 2024 Pennsylvania election was its role in voter mobilization. Campaigns used platforms to share information about polling locations, deadlines, and voter ID requirements. Viral hashtags like #VotePA2024 and #KeystoneVotes inspired civic pride and encouraged participation.

Candidates themselves took to platforms like Instagram Live and Facebook to engage directly with voters. These virtual town halls allowed for real-time interaction, giving voters a sense of connection and investment in the electoral process.

A prominent Democratic candidate praised social media’s role in her campaign, saying, "Social media allowed us to reach voters we might never have connected with otherwise. It gave us the tools to share our vision, address concerns, and inspire action."

Republican candidate echoed this sentiment, stating, "In today’s political landscape, social media is as important as traditional media. It’s where conversations are happening, and it’s where elections are won and lost."

The Power to Shape Conversations and Create Controversy

Social media’s ability to shape conversations and spark controversies was evident throughout the election cycle. From viral campaign ads to heated debates in the comments sections, platforms like Twitter and TikTok were the epicenter of political discourse.

One of the most talked-about moments came when a TikTok video highlighting voter suppression concerns in rural Pennsylvania went viral, amassing millions of views and sparking a statewide conversation. Similarly, a candidate’s controversial tweet became the subject of national headlines, illustrating the far-reaching impact of a single post.

Abramson commented, "Social media is no longer just a tool for communication; it’s a platform for storytelling, advocacy, and accountability. It has the power to create movements and hold individuals and institutions to account."

Emerging Platforms and Future Trends

While established platforms like Facebook and Instagram continued to dominate, emerging platforms also played a role in the 2024 Pennsylvania election. Apps like BeReal and Threads offered new ways for candidates to connect with voters, emphasizing authenticity and real-time interaction.

Abramson predicts that the influence of social media will only grow in future elections. "As platforms evolve, so will the strategies. The key for candidates and campaigns will be to remain adaptable and authentic, leveraging these tools to engage and inspire."

Oakridge Leaders: Conclusion

The 2024 election in Pennsylvania underscored the immense power of social media to shape political outcomes. From mobilizing voters to fostering dialogue, these platforms have become indispensable in the democratic process. However, as Ryan Abramson wisely cautions, "With great power comes great responsibility. Users must remain vigilant, critical, and informed."

As we look ahead, the lessons from Pennsylvania serve as a reminder of social media’s potential to drive positive change when used thoughtfully and responsibly.

Cited

1. Meta Newsroom. "More Speech, Fewer Mistakes: Updates to Content Moderation on Facebook and Instagram." January 6, 2025. Meta Newsroom

2. CNN. "Meta Scales Back Censorship and Ends Fact-Checking Program." January 7, 2025. CNN

3. Fox News. "Meta Ends Fact-Checking Program as Zuckerberg Vows to Restore Free Expression." January 7, 2025. Fox News

4. The Philadelphia Inquirer. "Social Media’s Role in the 2024 Pennsylvania Election." November 12, 2024.

5. Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. "Fact-Checking in the Age of Social Media: Lessons from the Election." November 15, 2024.

6. Oakridge Leaders. "The Role of Authentic Communication in Modern Campaigns." November 2024.