Influence of Social Media On the Election of Alexandra Ocasio-cortez

Abstract

This presentation will analyze the 2018 midterm election race for the then-candidate for District 14’s seat in House of Representatives, Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez. It will analyze the influence that social media had on Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez’s campaign by first, considering how it helped her gain momentum during her race as a populist candidate, and second, how this could impact the Democratic Party. She was a front runner since announcing her candidacy and astonishingly beat out incumbent Joe Crowley. Her social media presence and her appeal to the Hispanic demographic of Queens and the Bronx paved the way for her success. Her social media presence has helped increased her popularity on the left and has created significant turmoil among supporters on the right. It is still soon to determine if there will be a lasting impact on the Democratic party; however, it has spiked a trend in social media involvement from other legislators. Data were gathered through media and newspaper articles and as well as polling results.