Barack Obama was the first candidate to fully use social media during his run for the presidency. It allowed him to reach the public in a more direct way. Why would this be helpful to candidates?

Social media lets candidates communicate directly with voters, without relying on journalists or editors to decide which messages reach the public. This helps candidates avoid mass media’s gatekeeping function. It does not stop the media from investigating campaigns, choosing stories, or criticizing candidates.

AI-written and checked against the verified answer.