The emerging political power of social media influencers

The Emerging Political Power of Social Media Influencers

As new political actors, social media influencers may fill the increasing trust void between the public and political elites.

However, influencers on social media who dabble in politics have not earned a stellar reputation. The Department of Justice indicted two Russians for allegedly pumping cash into a small media startup founded by two Canadians, which hired established social media influencers to amplify Russian propaganda.

Examples of suspicious activity include Romania's cancellation of its presidential election amid alleged secret payments to social media influencers and repeated instances of influencers spreading misinformation and disinformation.

Influencers have been involved in evading election spending laws and spreading false information.

Author's summary: Social media influencers' political power grows.

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Policy Options Policy Options — 2025-10-27

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