Technology and Politics

This is a message for everyone in Washington- it’s not quite a Manifesto, but it is a laundry list of what I think are opportunities that should become imperatives in the near future. The gulf between Washington’s operations and the way they use Technology is criminal. Look at the ideals we had as a nation when we were founded, of Democracy and Freedom of Speech and connecting people across cultural, racial, ethnic and ethical divides, and you will see that we have a huge opportunity to fight, learn, agree, disagree, and be heard on social media. And listen, of course, which is the biggest thing that Congress and the rest of Washington needs to do.

1. Twitter. Every single representative in Washington should have a twitter account and be required to tweet at least once per day to tell their constituents what they are doing. You don’t have to reveal any secrets, just say something like, “Going to a meeting with the Ways and Means committee.” Or something. Then add a link to your notes. Whatever. You personally don’t have to answer your constituents, either, but you should have a staff person on there dedicated to doing that. Your people should have instant access to someone in your office from wherever they are in the country. That is a basic thing about Democracy and how our representative government works.
2. Facebook. Absolutely Representatives should have a Facebook Fan Page. Sarah Palin may say dumb things, but she is way ahead of the curb in using social media. She understand that that is where people are, and they are using it as part of their daily lives. She understands that they feel connected to her because they post something on her Facebook page. They understand that she is not on there all the time, but that she puts herself out there, that she is a real person with flaws, and that she is a politician not afraid to talk to the people in her voting bloc. That is why she is so popular. Again, hire someone to run this for you, but post yourself daily.
3. YouTube. Folks. It is free to put video messages on YouTube. You should, at the very least, be addressing your constituents with a speech monthly. If not weekly. If not daily. They can give you comments, reply videos, whatcetera. Seeing someone talk in person is a privilege and an honor. People should be seeing their representatives as much as possible. You should not see them never, which is how many times I have seen any of the politicians I have ever voted for (that aren’t President or Governor) speak. Why not update me on your week- 5 minutes. What you did, what you liked, what you’re up to, what you’re frustrated with. What are you doing that is so busy that you can’t tell the people who vote for you what is going down in Washington. Call home! It’s worth it.

Photo Credit: dullhulk