By Valerie Pendrak

William Tennent High School

Whether it was the radio in its hey day, television in the 1960’s, or the advent of social media, politicians, and most notably presidents, have effectively used the medium of their time.

Like with all other aspects of life in the 21st century, social media are pervasive and intertwined into our politics.

Today, we have a president who has attracted much attention by his use of the Internet. President Donald Trump frequently uses various social media platforms to comment about other politicians, celebrities and the news of the day.

Since taking office, many of his tweets, which have been said to exceed 17,000, have been considered official statements of the U.S. government.

Rightly or wrongly, the president has been accused of overusing social media. But is it wise or effective when major policies that affect our nation and the world at large are conducted through a tweet?

“It can be beneficial for young adults but it should not be for broadcasting nonsense,” said Drexel sophomore Jessica Summers. “If politicians are using their social media platforms exclusively for their personal agenda, then I don’t think that’s okay. If it’s for their political agenda, then it’s fine.”

For those approaching the voting age, there is a greater emphasis on focusing on pressing issues and the real world. Unlike their parents, many young adults are not consumers of news via the old traditional media outlets. They gravitate toward the Internet.

“I think it’s a great way for politicians to share their ideas to the public without having to spend a lot of money,” said Carly Lopez, a William Tennent senior. “But sometimes they can use it in a bad way to try to force their opinion and make others look like poor leaders.”

According to a 2019 UMass Lowell poll, 68 percent of all respondents aged 18–37 feel that Trump tweets too much.

Take heed, Twitter in Chief!