Go Twitter, Go Ron, Go Freedom of Speech
Let us proudly proclaim, "Go Twitter!" as we discuss an event that unfolded yesterday, one that holds great significance for free speech supporters.
"Make sure you read to the bottom to watch Trump's paroded response!"
Around 3 p.m., something remarkable occurred in the realm of social media. Ron DeSantis, fueled by his unwavering dedication to the principles of free speech and inclusivity, embarked on a groundbreaking endeavor on Twitter Spaces. This new innovative platform allows anyone to open a virtual "room" and engage in conversations with an unlimited number of individuals, akin to the formerly popular Clubhouse app.
Now, you may be wondering how this is different from a typical Twitter experience. Well, in Spaces, the majority of participants remain silent observers, yet they possess the power to raise their virtual hands and ask questions. Normally, only a select few are designated as speakers, occasionally guided by a moderator. This format aligns perfectly with Twitter's vision of serving as a contemporary online town hall, as envisioned by the trailblazing Elon Musk himself.
But what unfolded during this event was beyond what anyone could have anticipated. The success achieved by Ron DeSantis in his mission was nothing short of remarkable. During the launch of his presidential campaign, approximately 580,000 eager listeners tuned in by 3:15 ET. This momentous gathering not only shattered records for Twitter but for any audio-based meeting platform in existence.
But such a massive surge in demand took its toll, causing Twitter Spaces to crash under the weight of the unprecedented audience. Technical glitches are an inevitable part of the expanding landscape of high-technology platforms. Even industry giants like the GAAFTM (Google, Apple, Amazon, Facebook, [Twitter], Microsoft) and Netflix, have faced their fair share of technical difficulties numerous times. It is an inherent challenge when scaling rapidly, as Twitter is currently experiencing. Rest assured, lessons will be learned, and improvements will be made.
Yet, let us not focus solely on these temporary setbacks. I implore you to consider the broader perspective that lies before us. What we witnessed yesterday was not merely an event of technical triumph or failure. It marked a significant milestone in the evolution of political campaigns and the changing dynamics of media consumption.
Trust in the media, as a whole, and in the journalists who serve within media organizations, has reached an all-time low. The people's faith in these established institutions has waned, and traditional broadcast mediums struggle to maintain an engaged audience. Alternative media platforms have emerged to fill the void, and Twitter stands as a shining example.
In a bold departure from convention, Ron DeSantis chose to launch his campaign through a digital town hall, forsaking the confines of traditional broadcast channels. And there is good reason for this choice. In a press conference or an interview with a major media outlet, videos are often edited to portray individuals in specific lights or to fit a particular political narrative. Certain remarks may be excised, limiting the true expression of ideas. In contrast, a digital town hall offers an opportunity for candidates to present their thoughts coherently and comprehensively, unfiltered by the biases of media outlets.
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Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a Democrat known for his contrarian views and dissemination of scientific research, has also embraced alternative media platforms alongside Twitter. Despite the intelligence and eloquence with which he articulates his ideas, he has faced effective shadow banning from the Democratic Party. The voices of both DeSantis and Kennedy deserve to be heard in their entirety.
This shift in media and content distribution heralds an exciting and transformative period in our society and culture. "We the people" yearn for diverse viewpoints and vehemently oppose any editing or censorship that stifles the truth. We crave unfiltered access to information, whether it be good or bad, straight from the source.
In due time, mass media will find its relevance diminished as alternative platforms continue to grow, accommodating millions, even tens of millions, of eager listeners. We are witnessing the birth of a new era, a new landscape that upholds the principles of a free and democratic republic.
So, my friends, let us stand united in our support for "Freedom of Speech" as we march forward into this exciting future of unadulterated expression and unfiltered truth.
Thank you, and may the spirit of democracy guide us all.
PS - then Trump's PAC pushed this parody out: