Blogging And The Democratization Of Politics

On a television talk show recently, a political pundit and Barack Obama supporter lamented the spewing of lies he thought was taking place regarding Obama. The conservative panelist responded to a particular example with, "I haven't heard anyone saying that! Who is saying that?"

The Obama supporter retorted, "It's everywhere!" The conservative panelist pressed, "Who?" I believe her questioning related to the fact that no one from the McCain campaign or officials from the Republican party had made these particular statements.

The Obama supporter repeated in frustration, "Everywhere! Nameless bloggers!"

His agitation was revealing. On one hand, he was dismissive - they are just nameless bloggers. They are nobodys! On the other hand he recognized that in today's political climate, bloggers are a force to be reckoned with. Bloggers speed along and often control the political conversation while the typical journalist is still waiting for his editor to proofread his article before going to press. Naturally, the professional pundits are defensive of their turf and are quite resentful at times of bloggers' influence.

Technology has enabled a democratization of politics like we've never seen before. Not only does everyone have a vote, but everyone truly has a voice if they choose to share it. Elitism is rearing it's head as the standard journalists and commentators find they are no longer the premier opinion makers. This is reminiscent of an observation made by Thomas Jefferson upon attending a Baptist meeting. He remarked that the meeting was a true democracy, since every member not only had a vote but a voice in the proceedings regardless of wealth, education, gender, or age.

Given this new sphere of influence, bloggers themselves should take care that they are using the most professional webhosting available. Independent and customer reviews are especially helpful as you research the best webhosts for your particular site. Webhostinggeeks.com is a great source of information on everything from inexpensive (or even free) domain names, to the best webhosing by speed, for blogs, for forums, and much more.

As the election year grinds along, expect more and more influence to come from the 'pajama pundit' bloggers and more weeping and gnashing of teeth from the 'professsionals'.

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