We've truly arrived in the age of digital communication when we can follow our state and national politicians on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. On Facebook, we can "like" a post sent by President Obama or watch a well-known or controversial governor give a speech via YouTube. .
The internet has become the most effective method for political figures to connect with Americans. The ease and speed of spreading important and timely information through digital media has changed the American political arena. Fact checking, party affiliations, opinions, current legislation, and public court records are at our fingertips. Politicians, various political parties, and independent political blogs can be reached in minutes. Resourcing governmental information through libraries and archives is quick, easy and accurate - no more spending days, weeks or months traipsing through rows of books or stacks of confusing periodicals. As a voter, we can look up the candidates' political history, their likes, dislikes, and family relations. The internet is a priceless instrument in campaigning, allowing candidates to paint a picture of themselves anyway they would like; even if it's inaccurate. .
Even though the internet is a simple way for politicians to reach the masses, it can be used to harm, or even destroy, a candidate or political party. With the overwhelming number of politicians involved in scandal and shrouded in controversy, the internet can be a tool that's utilized to decimate a career. For every positive moment - a speech, photo opportunity, act of volunteering, or powerful quote - there can be an equally negative spin placed on their efforts. Words taken out of context or a Photoshopped image can tarnish a politicians reputation within seconds of it being spread over the internet. .
On May 27, 2011, a sexually explicit photo appeared for a brief moment on a Twitter account. Conservative blogger Andrew Breitbart was the first to report the image, which shows the bulging crotch of a man in his underwear.