Hybrid Politics in the Digital Age: Social Media Practices and Offline-Online Interactions of Local Politicians

• In Event: 20220 - Section on Communication, Information Technology, and Media Sociology Roundtables
  In Refereed Roundtable (60 minute): Section on Communication, Information Technology, and Media Sociology Roundtable X: Social Media II

Abstract

Digitalization has transformed political communication, making social media central to political discourse and voter engagement. While national politics' use of social media is well-studied, its impact on local politics remains underexplored. This study focuses on local politicians in Mersin, Turkey, examining how they integrate social media into face-to-face interactions and traditional political practices. It explores how social media influences voter interactions, political strategies, and whether it reinforces or challenges traditional methods. The research aims to fill gaps in understanding by analyzing local politicians' digital practices in a politically diverse area affected by significant migration. Using Chadwick's Hybrid Media System theory, media ecology, and social network theory, the study investigates the intersection of digital and traditional media in political communication. Data collection involves in-depth interviews with local politicians from various ideological backgrounds, focusing on those directly involved in digital communication strategies. The study seeks to determine if social media is merely a communication tool or an extension of political action, providing new empirical data from a distinct democratic tradition.

Authors

• Glenn Walter Muschert, Khalifa Univ of Science & Technology

• Ahmet Taylan, Mersin University

• Duygu Özsoy, Mersin University