DAMPAK MEDIA SOSIAL TERHADAP PREFERENSI POLITIK PEMILIH PEMULA MENJELANG PEMILU SERENTAK TAHUN 2024 DI DESA PALAPI KECAMATAN TAOPA

Abstract

This study examines the impact of social media on the political preferences of first-time voters ahead of the 2024 Simultaneous Elections in Palapi Village, Taopa District. The study was conducted using qualitative methods using a descriptive approach, collecting data through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation relevant to the research focus. This approach provides a comprehensive overview of the real conditions on the ground. The results indicate that social media significantly influences the political preferences of first-time voters, as most information regarding the implementation of the 2024 Simultaneous Elections is obtained from social media, with a broader reach than conventional methods, which tend to be one-way. However, not all information on social media is factual, as there are also hoaxes that can be misleading. Therefore, strengthening digital literacy is crucial to prevent first-time voters from being easily influenced by inaccurate information. Furthermore, the impact of social media on the political preferences of first-time voters ahead of the elections can be analyzed through three main aspects: cognitive, affective, and evaluative.