In a historic move, the Democratic National Convention Committee has announced that social media content creators will be allowed to apply for credentials to cover the 2024 convention in Chicago. This marks the first time that content creators will be able to cover the convention alongside traditional media outlets.
The decision to include content creators comes as a recognition of their role in revolutionizing the way Americans consume information and content. Cayana Mackey-Nance, the Democratic National Convention Committee director of digital strategy, stated, “We are leveling the playing field between content creators and traditional media and ensuring that more Americans than ever before are able to experience and engage with this critical part of our Democratic process.”
This move is seen as a way to reach young voters, who increasingly rely on nontraditional sources for their news. A recent survey from the Harvard Institute of Politics revealed that 25% of adults ages 18-29 get their news from YouTube, 25% from Instagram, and 23% from TikTok.
Matt Hill, the DNCC’s senior director of communications, emphasized the importance of meeting Americans where they are and making sure they understand the stakes in the upcoming election. Young voters are expected to be a key deciding bloc in the 2024 election, with recent polls showing a tight race between President Joe Biden and Donald Trump among this demographic.
The convention is set to take place from August 19 to 22 in Chicago and is anticipated to draw a crowd of 50,000 visitors, including delegates, media, and vendors. Democrats are gearing up to nominate Biden for reelection during the event.
