(NAPSA)—According to a recent Pew Research study, 22 percent of adults used social networkingsites to plug into the last elections. Social media use in the next presidential election race promises to be even higher, with innovative sites already sprouting up to help citizens voice their opinions, show support for their favorite candidates and even get a chance at the ballot themselves. Seasoned political pundits and novice voters are rapidly adopting new online media that aim to level the political playing field and get involved in ways never before possible. “In recent history, presidential candidates have needed very deep pockets, knowledge of the complex campaign process and a huge network of support resources to even get noticed,” said Bryan Lee, cofounder of Votocracy, a new social media site where anyone can toss their hat into the presidential ring for as little as $1. “We aim to be the great political equalizer, providing anyone of the 200 million voting-age Americans a shot at getting on the presidential ticket and gaining millions of supporters, simply through the power of social media.” The site offers members free access to find and interact with political candidates, then helps those candidates amass support from the American people after registering their own presidential campaign—which takes only minutes. The Votocracy process culminates in a nationally televised reality show in which the candidates who generate the most support compete for Amer- ica’s support. Howwill you be using social media to engage in the 2012 elections? O To make myvoice heard (51%) B To learn more about the candidates (24%) B To connect with other supporters (9%) Hj Torally myfriends and family (12%) | | don’t use social media (4%) Votocracy members can getinvolved and expresstheir political opinion on daily polls like: “What is the biggest problem with our current election process?” Other political networking sites, online communities and tools have emerged to help people engage and learn more about upcoming elections, participate in political discussions and keep tabs on specific politicians. This new wave of social media sites means a new breed of “political entrepreneur” can quickly gain momentum without having deep pockets, years of political experience or even notoriety—just the drive to compete and a passion for change. The campaign season promises to be more accessible and interactive than ever before, making it easy to get involved, either to support a favorite candidate or campaign. For a look at what many are calling the future of politics via social media, visit www.Votocracy.com.
