In the aftermath of the 2024 election, one undeniable trend has emerged: the era of the traditional celebrity as a dominant voice in public discourse is fading, while influencers and podcasters have taken the lead.
Buh bye.
Donald Trump’s team leaned into platforms built on authenticity, relatability, and a more direct connection with audiences. Digital personalities like influencers and podcasters are proving to be the real power brokers, outpacing Hollywood celebrities in shaping public opinion and driving engagement.
Kamala Harris aligned with high-profile celebrities in entertainment, music, and sports who were thought to hold sway in American politics. They rallied their millions of fans to vote, took bold stands on issues, and often served as informal spokespersons for causes or candidates. Both Sabrina Carpenter and Taylor Swift were responsible for millions of new voters registering.
But with Trump winning both the Electoral and popular votes, this election revealed a seismic shift: while many stars endorsed candidates and causes, influencers and podcasters were the individuals truly shaping the political conversation. Figures like Joe Rogan, Hasan Piker, and conservative voices like Ben Shapiro and the Hodgetwins wielded far greater influence over public opinion than the standard roster of Hollywood names such as Howard Stern, Jimmy Kimmel and Megan Thee Stallion.
How did this happen?
Authenticity Over Glamour
One reason for this shift is that influencers and podcasters have honed an authentic, accessible brand that resonates more deeply with today’s audiences. Instead of broadcasting from red carpets or scripted interviews, they speak directly from their homes or studios, creating a sense of familiarity.
When Rogan discusses politics on his podcast, it feels like an unfiltered, candid conversation, which fosters a stronger sense of trust than more polished celebrity endorsements. For many, Rogan’s multi-hour deep dives with guests are far more compelling than a brief celebrity appearance at a rally or a one-off PSA video.
Podcasters, in particular, have an advantage in their long-form format. They are able to explore political issues in-depth, offering nuanced opinions that mainstream media and traditional celebrities rarely provide.
Whether it’s Rogan’s discussion on civil liberties, Shapiro’s debates on free speech, or Piker’s breakdown of economic issues, these podcasters allow listeners to engage in an extended dialogue that feels thoughtful and genuine. This isn’t just passive consumption—these platforms encourage active listening, deep reflection, and often drive conversations in real life and online communities.
Real-Time Engagement and Cross-Platform Influence
Influencers and podcasters are experts at engaging their followers in real-time. Whether it’s through live-streaming on platforms like Twitch, hosting X Spaces, or delivering immediate reactions on YouTube, they adapt instantly to breaking news.
Unlike traditional celebrities, who might stick to scheduled appearances or scripted statements, digital personalities can respond to political events as they unfold, inviting their followers to join the discussion as it happens.
Influencers and podcasters also excel at building multi-platform ecosystems. They might record a podcast, share clips on TikTok, discuss the episode on Instagram, and engage with fans on X. This cross-platform approach allows them to reach their audience wherever they are, amplifying their messages in a way traditional celebrity endorsements simply cannot match.
This interconnected presence has been instrumental in amplifying their influence, especially with younger audiences who consume content across multiple digital channels.
Fostering Communities, Not Just Fans
Unlike traditional celebrities who often speak to fans, influencers and podcasters speak with them. Influencers build online communities where followers don’t just passively consume content—they engage, comment, and share.
Podcasts similarly foster loyal communities where listeners feel part of an ongoing dialogue. Rogan’s listeners, for example, have built a sort of digital community around his show, discussing episodes on forums, sharing clips, and even acting on advice or recommendations he gives.
This sense of community becomes a powerful tool in elections. When an influencer like Hasan Piker discusses why he supports or critiques a candidate, he doesn’t just share an opinion—he galvanizes a movement within his community.
Podcasters do the same, inviting audiences to question, debate, and act. The result is a more engaged, activated base that feels empowered to participate in the political process, often more so than fans of traditional celebrities.
Moving Beyond the Mainstream Media
Another reason for this shift is a growing mistrust in mainstream media. Many young and politically active audiences are seeking alternative sources for their news and opinions, and they are increasingly finding these in podcasters and influencers who seem more transparent and relatable.
Figures like Joe Rogan, for instance, openly discuss skepticism around certain media narratives and invite a range of perspectives on his show, which gives audiences the sense that they’re hearing a more balanced discussion.
Traditional celebrities, on the other hand, are often closely aligned with mainstream narratives, limiting their appeal to audiences seeking alternative viewpoints. Influencers and podcasters, however, thrive on presenting unconventional perspectives and tapping into underrepresented viewpoints, which allows them to resonate more deeply with followers who feel sidelined by mainstream sources.
What This Means for Politics and Marketing in the Digital Age
As influencers and podcasters solidify their influence, political campaigns and public messaging will likely shift focus. For future elections, strategists may prioritize partnerships with digital personalities who have built loyal audiences and authentic connections with their followers. A one-time celebrity endorsement will no longer be enough to sway opinion—successful campaigns will require ongoing engagement from voices that voters truly trust.
Brands and candidates alike must recognize that the age of celebrity endorsement has faded, replaced by influencers and podcasters who offer authenticity, direct engagement, and cross-platform presence.
In this new political landscape, the 2024 election stands as a testament to the growing power of influencers and podcasters. They are not merely an alternative to celebrity endorsements; they are the new gatekeepers of public opinion, shaping conversations in ways that feel both personal and powerful. As society becomes even more digital and community-driven, the influence of these online voices is set to rise, ultimately reshaping not only politics but the very nature of public discourse.
Welcome to the Age of the Influencer.
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