Clare Malone, staff writer at The New Yorker, discusses how memes on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram are shaping the narrative around Joe Biden and Donald Trump. She explores the impact of edited videos, the shift in news consumption habits to platforms like TikTok, and the resurgence of old content in the 2024 election. Malone also analyzes the influence of humor in political memes, the rise of right-wing voices on social media, and the use of algorithms in political campaigning.
Political campaigns are utilizing algorithms on social media to gain traction for the 2024 election.
Misinformation is spread through AI-generated content and right-wing echo chambers, impacting voter perceptions.
Deep dives
American Politics and Virality on Social Media
The concern surrounding Biden's age is highlighted, with videos of his falls going viral and contributing to the perception of his capabilities. The increasing reliance on social media for news consumption, especially platforms like TikTok, is reshaping political messaging and influencing voter opinions. Memes and videos play a significant role in shaping public perception, with Biden and Trump actively engaging in online virality to reach a wider audience.
Memes, Misinformation, and AI Impact
The spread of misinformation through AI-generated content poses a significant challenge, especially in targeting voter turnout and spreading false narratives. Conservative social media platforms like Truth Social serve as echo chambers, amplifying right-wing content and engaging with a specific audience. The impact of social media on disseminating memes and news raises concerns about misinformation and the potential manipulation of online narratives.
Campaign Strategies in the Social Media Era
Candidates are adapting their campaign strategies to leverage social media virality, focusing on creating shareable and engaging content. Biden's campaign, for instance, has embraced mini-events designed to resonate with social media audiences and evoke emotional responses. Traditional late-night comedy and political humor are being challenged by right-wing memes that capitalize on shock value and subversiveness.
The Shift in Media Consumption and Political Messaging
The transformation of media consumption, particularly among younger audiences turning to platforms like TikTok for news, is reshaping political communication. Candidates are exploring new ways to connect with voters through viral moments and engaging content. The interplay of AI-generated content, memes, and misinformation underscores the evolving landscape of political discourse in the digital age.
The New Yorker staff writer Clare Malone joins Tyler Foggatt to analyze how President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump are being skewered on social-media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. She discusses our shifting media habits, why the 2016 election is surfacing in new contexts online, and how both campaigns are relying on algorithms to gain momentum ahead of November.
This episode originally aired on January 31, 2024.