Final Answer:
The function of political parties that may be less important in the future due to the price of social media (free) is Voter outreach and mobilization. Thus the correct option is (B).
Step-by-step explanation:
Political parties traditionally relied heavily on fundraising for campaigns, as financial resources were essential for advertising, events, and other campaign activities. However, with the advent of free social media platforms, the cost associated with reaching and mobilizing voters has significantly decreased. Social media enables parties to engage with voters, disseminate information, and mobilize support without incurring substantial financial expenses.Thus the correct option is (B).
Voter outreach and mobilization have become more accessible and cost-effective through social media platforms. Parties can reach a wide audience instantly without the need for extensive financial resources. This democratization of communication allows political parties to engage directly with voters, share their messages, and mobilize support on a massive scale. As a result, the traditional emphasis on fundraising for these purposes may diminish, making voter outreach and mobilization a less financially burdensome aspect of political campaigns.
While other functions, such as policy development and advocacy, candidate selection, and nomination, remain crucial, the diminishing cost of voter outreach through social media is likely to shift the dynamics of campaign priorities. Political parties can allocate resources more strategically, focusing on areas where direct financial investment is still imperative, such as policy development, candidate selection, and nomination processes. In conclusion, the free accessibility of social media is reshaping the landscape of political campaigns and influencing the relative importance of different party functions.