When Does Who Become More Important Than What?

Apparently, it’s the moment a United States president uses social media.

In 2008, for the first time ever, the battle for the presidential election was waged and won by President Barack Obama through social media. This is not news. It happened roughly 4 years ago and was the topic of much conversation at the time. So much so, that now it is considered standard practice.

This is why I took interest in an article published by The New York Times entitled, “Obama Starts Tweeting for Himself”. I had always assumed that during the 2008 election the majority of the social media posts, especially on Twitter, were composed by a group of communications staffers, but I was surprised that Obama did not write a single tweet himself.

Well, that’s all changing. As of Father’s Day, Obama will start composing his own tweets. Or at least the ones signed, –BO. Here is what the president had to say in his inaugural tweet:

"Being a father is sometimes my hardest but always my most rewarding job. Happy Father’s Day to all the dads out there. –BO."

What does this mean for his upcoming campaign? Well, staffers are hoping it will help voters feel more connected to the president, and that messages sent directly from him will have a greater impact. Personally, I am hoping we will get to see a glimpse of the individual style that is Obama. But I haven’t decided if this matters to me as a voter.

As a communications student, I expect a team of communications professionals to meticulously write and rewrite every piece of information that we receive from the White House and the president. So I am not sure if this personal signature will mean that much. Personally, I kind of doubt it. But if the president can make people feel as if they have access to him, then it just might mean a whole heck of a lot.

What do you think about the situation? Will you feel more connected to the President if he types in his own tweets? Will this bring something new to the political table, giving the everyday voter access to the candidate?

To read the full article from The New York Times click here.


This guest blog was written by PRowl Public Relations staff member Jacob DeChant.