Streaming your message online is just "smart politics." That's the reaction of Dr. Barry Kay of Wilfrid Laurier University following Prime Minister Harper's Youtube address this morning. The Associate Professor of Political Science says different demographics get their news in different ways and this is just another way of reaching a wider audience. Kay tells 570 News the prime minister is reaching a much younger audience with today's address.
Kay says, in many ways, the days of politicians meeting constituents face-to-face are over. Instead, savvy politicians are spreading messages to the widest audience possible. And Kay says with the variety of media available today, politicians can target different audiences with each message on each medium. Kay believes that Prime Minister Harper -- and other world leaders -- are following the trail blazed by President Obama when it comes to the use of social media. Harper has "friended" Canadians on Facebook and followed them on Twitter. He's also posted past videos of campaign announcements and clips of public appearances on YouTube.
Harper will also ask for Canadians questions and plans to respond in another YouTube appearance on Tuesday, March 16 at 7:00 p.m.
To submit your question visit: www.youtube.com/talkcanada