The Year Democrats Lost the Internet
Perhaps in part because of this exclusionary strategy, the audiences Republicans reached were more engaged with the content than Democratic audiences. A recent study by People First and Infegy found that conservative-leaning podcasts hosted by figures like Rogan and Theo Von recently had 25 to 33 percent higher engagement than shows that Harris continued, for example Call her dad.
The influential people who interviewed Trump this cycle are not political creatures. Rogan and Von grew their audiences from their comedy careers (and in Rogan’s case, sports) and from within the entertainment industry. Their ideology is highly amorphous, attracting a wide audience across the political spectrum. Both Von and Rogan interviewed Trump, but they also recorded conversations with progressive lawmakers like Sanders, which made it easier for each of them to avoid being tied to either party and thus enhance audience confidence.
“The floor has completely collapsed on the Democratic Party’s online brand,” Brock said. “People who don’t care about politics won’t like us. People who care and work in politics don’t know how to represent us. We are considered completely out of touch and as more and more people turn to unconventional methods to receive their news and media, we face a huge setback in the future. future without a change in strategy.
After last month’s Democratic defeat, progressive critics of the mainstream media have launched their own media startups or are seeking new funding. Amelia Montooth, CEO of Mutuals Media, argues that Democrats need their own culturally focused online programming.
“The right has a channel that I believe started with Barstool Sports to reach mass audiences through pop culture,” Montooth said. “It will require serious investment not only from people like the progressive party, but also from individuals interested in that work and the press.”
It would also require taking risks — something Democrats, a party now led by an 82-year-old man, are known to shy away from.
“Sticking to the same five talking points won’t give you a true viral moment, and a viral moment won’t matter if it doesn’t translate into a larger movement down the road,” Brock said. . “Because criticism and ridicule will lead to engagement, conversation, inspiring people to defend you and evangelize others to help you.”
