Political deliberation, new social media, and the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010

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Authors
Osborn, Kyle G.
Advisor
Regan, Daniel J.
Issue Date
2010-12-18
Keyword
Degree
Thesis (M.A.)
Department
Department of Political Science
Other Identifiers
Abstract

This paper presents a comprehensive overview of the context and significance of new social media and the effects that new social media has had on the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010. The evidence in this study suggests that new social media has had a significant effect on the deliberative process during the time that the deliberative activities of members of Congress as they considered The PPACA was moving through the House of Representatives and the Senate. It is evident that the use of social media that we see today in the political realm is just the tip of the iceberg. Facebook, Twitter, and congressional members’ web pages enable more citizens to see and hear how laws are made and provides them the chance to participate in the congressional legislative process more extensively than ever before possible. New social media has become instrumental for disseminating information regarding what is transpiring on Capitol Hill as well as a way for our leaders to communicate their views and explain their actions to constituents as well as the public.

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