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What Next | Daily News and Analysis

TBD | The Influencer Administration

Dec 6, 2024
Tech reporter Drew Harwell from The Washington Post dives into the intriguing rise of influencers in politics, spotlighting figures like RFK Jr. and Dr. Oz. He discusses the blurred lines between public service and commercialism, especially in the wake of the Trump era. The conversation also tackles ethical concerns around influencer marketing and the complexities of federal endorsements. With the digital age reshaping political branding, Harwell questions what this means for genuine engagement from elected officials in an increasingly commercial landscape.
32:05

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The increasing presence of influencers in politics, such as RFK Jr. and Dr. Oz, raises concerns about conflicts of interest and accountability.
  • The blending of entertainment and governance in today's political landscape signals a significant shift in public trust and ethical standards.

Deep dives

The Rise of Boxballin'

Boxballin' has become a popular game on social media, gaining attention from celebrities like Khloe Kardashian and Bill Gates, as well as political figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. This game involves strapping a bouncy ball to one's head and boxing it back and forth to achieve high scores, creating a lighthearted and engaging experience for players. A viral video featuring RFK Jr. showcased him enthusiastically playing Boxballin', highlighting how even public figures are participating in this quirky trend. This phenomenon emphasizes the blending of entertainment and politics, where political figures adopt influencer tactics that have previously been reserved for traditional entertainers.

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