A Dad-Coded VP Pick. Plus, Trump Courts Gen Z Influencers
Aug 9, 2024
auto_awesome
Tim Walz, the relatable Governor of Minnesota, discusses his "dad-coded" appeal, shedding light on how narratives shape political personas. Joining him is Charlie Warzel from The Atlantic, who explores the impact of memes and online content on public perception. The conversation also dives into Donald Trump’s engagement with Gen Z influencers like Adin Ross, highlighting the evolving role of social media in politics. Together, they discuss the fascinating intersection of modern journalism and digital influence, revealing new political strategies.
Tim Walz's 'dad-coded' persona highlights how political figures can resonate with voters through relatable and comforting archetypes.
Donald Trump's engagement with influencers like Adin Ross indicates a strategic effort to connect with younger audiences through modern platforms.
The DNC's credentialing of content creators reflects a shift in political communication, emphasizing the power of relatable voices in shaping public discourse.
Deep dives
The Appeal of New Merchandise
The introduction highlights the release of new merchandise, particularly a camo hat that sold out quickly, emphasizing its appeal to both supporters and potential customers. The podcast discusses the distinctive design elements of the hats, such as a light blue cotton material paired with vibrant orange lettering. It mentions how these items serve to build a community among listeners while providing a means for supporters to show their allegiance. Overall, the focus on merchandise illustrates how brands leverage personal connections to their audience to boost engagement and fundraising efforts.
The Impact of Influencer Shows
The podcast delves into how political figures like Donald Trump engage with popular influencers to boost their appeal and relevance among younger audiences. It raises questions about whether such appearances enhance a candidate's public image or merely serve as publicity stunts. The hosts note that Trump's association with trendy figures can make his controversial figure seem more relatable or 'cool.' By participating in these influential platforms, candidates can potentially reach demographics that traditional media does not capture, leading to discussions about the evolving nature of political advertising.
The Evolving Landscape of News Media
A critical discussion unfolds regarding the DNC's decision to credential a record number of content creators, reflecting a shift in media consumption patterns. The podcast features creators who engage with audiences through non-traditional means, suggesting that they are seen as trusted voices by younger generations. It comments on how these influencers can break down complex political issues into digestible content for their followers, thus shaping public discourse. This trend signals an effort by political entities to adapt to a rapidly changing media environment, moving away from traditional journalism toward a more participatory model.
Polarization in Political Representation
The episode addresses how various political figures, particularly in the context of campaigns, embody distinct cultural archetypes that resonate with different voter demographics. Tim Walz is portrayed as the relatable, comforting 'dad' persona, juxtaposed with more aggressive, macho portrayals associated with Trump and his allies. The contrast in styles reflects broader societal divides and suggests how personality types can influence voter alignment and loyalty. This dynamic of persona versus policy underscores the increasingly theatrical nature of modern politics, where image can be as powerful as messages.
Building Trust Amidst Media Disruption
The podcast explores the challenges facing traditional media outlets as they compete with the rise of independent influencers and content creators. It notes a decline in trust towards legacy media, coupled with a surge in audiences seeking more personable and relatable journalists. The conversation emphasizes the necessity for legacy media to adapt and innovate while questioning the sustainability of influencer-driven news. Ultimately, it poses significant implications for the future of journalism, emphasizing the need for credible, original reporting while meeting changing audience expectations.
This week, Kamala Harris’ VP pick Tim Walz went viral for being a typical Midwestern dad. On this week’s On the Media, the narratives surrounding Walz, and the political appeal of the car-tinkering, grill-manning father figure. Plus, the news influencers covering the election, and what their work reveals about the future of legacy journalism.
[02:22] Host Brooke Gladstone examines the narratives swirling around Gov. Tim Walz, and chats with Charlie Warzel, staff writer at The Atlantic, about the many memes, videos, and tweets claiming the VP nominee is “dad-coded.”
[14:50] Host Micah Loewinger speaks with Nathan Grayson, reporter and co-founder of the gaming publication Aftermath. They discuss Donald Trump’s recent interview with live streamer Adin Ross and Trump’s courtship of edgelord influencers like Logan Paul. Plus, is there a place for politicians on platforms like Twitch and Kick?
[33:18] Host Micah Loewinger talks with Makena Kelly, who writes about politics and the internet for Wired, about how the Republican and Democratic national conventions are inviting influencers to watch. Then, Micah checks in with Taylor Lorenz, columnist at the Washington Post and host of the podcast Power User, about how the rise of short-form video is impacting the news industry.
On the Media is supported by listeners like you. Support OTM by donating today (https://pledge.wnyc.org/support/otm). Follow our show on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook @onthemedia, and share your thoughts with us by emailing onthemedia@wnyc.org.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
