Campaigns are embracing influencers, but internet stardom doesn't always win votes

Published June 15, 2026 · Category: News

Overview

Streamer Hasan Piker, left, and Abdul El-Sayed, a progressive candidate in the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate in Michigan, center right, take a selfie with young fans following a campaign event on April 7, 2026, at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.

It's becoming common for campaigns to seek out viral moments and the support of internet stars to reach new voters. But the strategy, albeit flashy, has yielded mixed results in key races this year.

Details

(Image credit: Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Source

Originally published at www.npr.org.

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