24 to the White House: Exploring Venues Along the 2024 Presidential Campaign Trail
As the 2020 presidential election winds down, many are looking ahead to the 2024 race. In the coming years, the campaign trail will undoubtedly look much different than what we witness currently. With so much of 2020 being conducted virtually due to the Coronavirus pandemic, the 2024 election could bring a mix of virtual and in-person campaigning to the table.
Most analysts agree that the traditional concept of a campaign trail – frequently moving from one state to the next to hold rallies and deliver speeches – will still be intact. But it is expected to be paired with an online presence that could potentially reach voters in a way that’s never been done before. This new reality goes far beyond just paid advertisements; campaign strategists will be challenged to use innovative approaches to reach different audiences.
Local events are expected to remain an important part of the campaign trail. However, the modern reality requires that this be supplemented with virtual events as well. Virtual town hall meetings, virtual debates, and media appearances are a few examples of activities that might gain traction in the coming years.
The number of virtual events that can be conducted has increased due to the proliferation of streaming services. Campaigns will be able to reach more voters by broadcasting rallies or town hall meetings on these platforms in addition to traditional forms of media.
Social media in particular could become a powerful tool in 2024. Politicians in 2020 have already employed Twitter, Instagram, and other platforms to their advantage, but this could become even more important as time progresses. As the population continues to grow more comfortable with online communication, politicians may be able to leverage social media for more direct access to voters.
In terms of travel, the campaign trail in 2024 may look drastically different depending on the effects of the pandemic. While the use of airplanes is still expected to remain a major part of campaigning, politicians may also opt to invest in other forms of transportation that are more eco-friendly.
No matter what the means of travel may be in 2024, the concept of interconnectedness is expected to remain the same. Campaigns will have to canvass multiple venues – both online and in-person – to develop a broad base of support. With so many variables in the mix, political strategists and the candidates they represent have an exciting opportunity to make history.