If 2004 was the "Year of the Internet" in politics, 2008 is all about social networking web sites.
On social networking web sites such as Facebook and MySpace, you can join groups to support -- or denounce -- a candidate.
But even social networking frontrunner Barack Obama doesn't have his "One Million Strong" affinity group half-filled. Much less so for a similar presence for Hillary Clinton.
Of course, these groups are equal opportunity.
"I'm in a McCain support group."
Steve is a senior at Conestoga High School in Berwyn, Pa.:
"It's decent in that it allows people to have some surface contact, but there's not a whole lot of really worthwhile debate on those pages."
He says it's more about showing off your online persona, and some kids will join just to stir up trouble.
But Sonia, also a senior, finds that the groups have allowed her friends -- who might not have shown interest in the past -- to get involved:
"On the wall, they'll talk about the issues, they'll debate, they'll argue on it. And even though it may seem petty, I think it's great they're opening up a communication and actually talking about the issues."
Ray Murphy is co-editor of the blog YoungPhillyPolitics.com. But don't let the web site's title fool you -- he's first to say all that pointing-and-clicking is no match for a candidate pounding the pavement and squeezing hands:
"You see your best friend has joined a group, so do you. But does that mean you'll go out and vote? I doubt it. The Internet is not a substitute to person-to-person communication. It's not going to solve all your problems -- you have to talk one-on-one with a lot of people to get them to either support you or to give time or money to support you."
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Regional Affairs Council Podcasts: Listen or Download
Youth & Politics: The Underage
In this expanded Regional Affairs Council interview on the youth vote, KYW's Ian Bush talks with an Interboro High School junior who won't be able to vote in 2008, but wants to play a role anyway. (14:32)
Youth & Politics: The Internet
In this expanded Regional Affairs Council interview on the youth vote, KYW's Ian Bush talks with Ray Murphy, co-editor of the blog YoungPhillyPolitics.com. (23:14)
High School Voters
High school is about as young as you can get when it comes to being eligible to vote. But not all high school students are lucky enough to be turning 18 this year. KYW's Hadas Kuznits reports on their efforts during this year's election.
The Underage
At two area high schools, politics are front and center. KYW's Ian Bush takes a look.
Political Party Efforts
So, what are the political parties doing to encourage the youth vote? KYW’s David Madden has this report.
Youth Issues
So what drives youth interest in politics -- and, as candidates hope, gets them to the polls on Election Day? KYW's Ian Bush reports:
Social Networking
If 2004 was the year of the Internet in politics, 2008 is all about social networking web sites. KYW's Ian Bush takes a look:
Relying On The Youth
Can candidates rely on the youth vote -- or is it more fantasy than reality? KYW's Ian Bush reports:
Politics and Youth
KYW's Hadas Kuznits reports one person who may know a little something about youth and politics is Pa's youngest current serving general assembly member.
Getting Youth To The Polls
The push to get young people to the polls is not just a national thing. Just ask newly elected Philadelphia mayor Michael Nutter. KYW’s David Madden spoke with two youthful political activists who helped get him there.
Voter Registration
KYW's Hadas Kuznits reports there are a lot of questions when it comes to voter eligibility.
History of the Voting Youth
The importance of the youth vote has grown in recent years. KYW’s David Madden takes a look at its short history.
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