The Grill Room Elon, Zohran & The New Politics of Influence
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Dec 2, 2025 McKenna Kelly, a Senior Writer at Wired, dives into the fascinating intersection of politics, internet culture, and technology. She discusses how Elon Musk's influence reshaped political narratives and the shift from traditional press to influencer-driven coverage. McKenna highlights how online fandoms can energize campaigns, citing Zohran Mamdani's grassroots success. With creators now seen as credible sources, she explores the challenges reporters face in maintaining objectivity while navigating these new dynamics. It's a reflection on the evolving landscape of political media.
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Tech Is Politics, Politics Is Tech
- Tech and politics have merged: politicians now must command attention on digital platforms like past leaders did on radio or TV.
- McKenna Kelly says reporting must follow platform users and communities, not just institutions.
Silicon Valley Tactics Enter Government
- Governments now adopt Silicon Valley operational playbooks and invite creators into traditional press roles.
- McKenna notes the Pentagon began briefing right-wing creators while traditional press corps walked out.
How Doge Reporting Started
- McKenna began getting texts from US Digital Service staff about bizarre Zoom reviews after inauguration weekend.
- She posted on Blue Sky and woke to 300 tip messages from confused federal employees, kicking off deep Doge coverage.