eWomenNetwork Blog

(Soon to be ex) Alaksa Governor, Sarah Palin

Among other big news stories over this past 4th of July weekend was the story about Alaska Governor Sarah Palin’s decision not to seek another term as Governor, and her resignation 2-1/2 years early from her post as Governor.

While the media and folks in politics debate whether this is either a brilliant strategy or a terrible mistake on her part, my point is not to discuss her politics – but rather to bring to light the way she is choosing to get the word out about her decisions and her plans for the future utilizing the same social media tools that are available to all of us.

Her Facebook page shows that she currently has 600,428 fans (or supporters) and she is actively using Twitter (@akgovsarahpalin) to send updates and keep people posted (she’s added about 30,000 followers since making her announcement last Friday).

In the last election, President Obama famously implemented social media as a key piece of his campaign strategy (obviously, with much success).

Like Obama, (and other “celebrity figures”), Palin has had the opportunity to attract many more “fans” or “followers” than those of us mere mortals could do in a similar timeframe.  Because of this, the conversation has just exploded rapidly on both of these sites with both supporters and detractors weighing in.

It’s going to be fascinating to watch her use of these social media tools as she leaves her official office and moves on to whatever she has planned next.

Caroline

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