The rise of social media has had a profound impact on politics, and nowhere is this more evident than in the growing popularity of YouTubers as political candidates. These influencers have amassed large followings of young and engaged viewers, making them attractive targets for political parties looking to reach a new generation of voters.
One of the most notable examples of this trend is the case of Elvish Yadav, a popular YouTuber who won the Bigg Boss OTT season 2. Yadav’s victory was seen as a major coup for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which had backed him in the competition. The party’s decision to support Yadav was based on his strong following among young people, who are seen as a key demographic in upcoming elections.
Yadav is not the only YouTuber who has been courted by political parties. In recent years, there have been a number of other cases of YouTubers being recruited as political candidates. For example, in 2022, the Congress party in India announced that it would be fielding a YouTube as its candidate in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The YouTubers candidacy is seen as a way for the Congress party to connect with young voters.
The trend of YouTubers becoming political candidates is likely to continue in the years to come. As social media continues to grow in importance, political parties will increasingly look to these influencers to reach new voters. This could have a significant impact on the political landscape, as it gives a platform to voices that have traditionally been marginalized.
There are a number of reasons why political parties are so interested in courting YouTubers. First, YouTubers have a large and engaged following. This is especially true of young people, who are seen as a key demographic in upcoming elections. Second, YouTubers are often seen as being more authentic and relatable than traditional politicians. This can make them more appealing to voters who are tired of the status quo. Third, YouTubers are skilled at using social media to connect with their audience. This is a valuable asset in today’s political climate, where social media is increasingly being used to spread information and mobilize voters.
Of course, there are also some risks associated with fielding YouTubers as political candidates. First, YouTubers may not have the necessary experience or qualifications to hold elected office. Second, they may be seen as being too inexperienced or unqualified to deal with the challenges of governing. Third, they may be more susceptible to scandal or controversy.
Despite these risks, the trend of YouTubers becoming political candidates is likely to continue in the years to come. As social media continues to grow in importance, political parties will increasingly look to these influencers to reach new voters. This could have a significant impact on the political landscape, as it gives a platform to voices that have traditionally been marginalized.
Only time will tell how successful this trend will be. However, it is clear that YouTubers are now a force to be reckoned with in the political arena.