Social Media Appears To Have Managed The US Midterms

Social Media Breathes A Sign Of Relief As US Midterms Conclude

Over the last few years, one of the biggest criticisms of social media is the role it has played in elections. Following the 2016 US Presidential Election and the UK Brexit vote many sites including Facebook and Twitter were criticised (and even investigated). The reason for this was based on the amount of external propaganda/misinformation which was spread.

With the US Mid-term elections being held yesterday, the social media sites had been on red alert for several months. Looking to quash any potential for allegations of political involvement.

Well, with the votes now (more or less) concluded, it seems that they might have actually got it right this time!

No Major Criticism

Following the results, there has, been no allegations or criticism against any of the social media sites. Well, at least not yet! Yes, as crazy as it might sound, it looks like they actually managed to handle the situation this time around! The measures put in place seem to have actually worked, but some sources say it’s simply too early to tell.

Voter Fraud!

In a report via the BBC, many are suggesting that while this looks like a victory for social medias ability to regulate itself, more critical voices are suggesting its too early to get out the bunting. Bret Schafer from the Alliance to Secure Democracy has said: “I remain convinced that the real action will be after the election. When we start to see the voter fraud, hacking claims start to roll in.”

In fairness, he’s probably right. There will undoubtedly be some allegations against social media. On the whole though, the consensus seems to be that, for once, they may have got it right!

What do you think? – Let us know in the comments!