Technology changes the campaign game

Penny Collenette, the Liberal candidate for Ottawa Centre, attempted to connect with students on a residence-wide Internet chat.

On Sept. 29, Collenette logged onto DC++’s chat room, a file-sharing network in residence, for an hour-long question-and-answer period with students.

From a Dundas dorm room, she addressed a variety of concerns, from marijuana possession to government debt.

For Collenette and her campaign, the chat was a grassroots attempt to reach out to one of the most desirable demographics in Canadian politics.

“If we get youth engaged now, then they will be engaged for the rest of their lives,” said Collenette, a Carleton alumna.

This isn’t the first time a politician has used the technology to engage with youth.

Liberal MPP Yasir Naqvi used the DC++ chat room to talk to students in his 2007 campaign. The turnout to those chats was partial inspiration for Collenette.

The turnout matched expectations, with a final number of 442 students logging on.

“At no other time could she [Penny] reach so many people,” said Patrick Watson, a campaign representative.

It is all part of a growing trend on the current political landscape, with politicians increasingly using new technology to reach certain demographics.

“[Technology] has become embedded in the political process,” said Jonanthan Malloy, an associate professor in the department of political science. “It has certainly been fruitful for campaigns in that they know it is a good way to reach youth. Information travels faster on the Internet.”

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