Final answer:
When leaders make online statements, they can gain popularity or attract criticism, and rarely maintain neutrality; it is difficult for them to avoid responsibility for their statements. Presidents may use media and social media to influence public opinion and legislative action, especially when they have high approval ratings. New media allow politicians to control their image and communicate directly with the public, but credibility is crucial for maintaining their audience.
Step-by-step explanation:
When leaders make online statements, they may indeed appear to be the authority on the topic. This perception of authority comes with various consequences and can lead to different outcomes. These leaders may gain popularity as they resonate with their audience and attract a following that supports their vision or policy goals. Conversely, they may attract criticism from those who disagree or scrutinize their positions. It is rare for such leaders to maintain neutrality in the eyes of the public, as expressing any opinion or stance can be polarizing. Additionally, given the accountability that comes with being in the public eye, it is often challenging for them to avoid responsibility for their statements, even when they may attempt to do so.
As seen with the role of U.S. presidents, their ability to influence public opinion is significant. When enjoying high levels of public approval, presidents can act decisively to accomplish personal policy goals and use media attention to their advantage. The modern era has seen presidents utilizing their popularity to garner media and social media attention on issues, which can lead to legislative changes even when they are not directly responsible for congressional actions. Interestingly, increasing partisanship can make it harder for presidents to use this power when their party is in the minority in Congress.
With the impact of new media, politicians like Sarah Palin have utilized social media platforms and selected media outlets to control their public image and communicate their message effectively. Yet, it is essential for political elites to maintain credibility, as losing it can result in the loss of their audience. With the growing role of political elites and opinion leaders in shaping public opinion, it is crucial for them to convey their messages in a way that invites constructive conversation and avoids polarizing rhetoric.