Journalists: politicians' social media style directly affects party ratings

On the show "Spried ar Delfi" on Thursday, August 13, journalists discussed the SKDS poll results on party ratings for July, concluding that politicians' social media activity has a real impact on how parties are perceived.

"The spring released"

Journalist Jānis Domburs said the influence is unmistakable. He noted that under the previous government, the communication style felt restrained, but this has changed under Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs (AS). Domburs said former Prime Minister Evika Siliņa's attempts at content such as TikTok clips often came across as forced, whereas Kulbergs' approach has worked out better.

A more organic style

Delfi TV journalist Alina Lastovska-Butkeviča added that Kulbergs' daily evening updates look far more natural than the previously seen, carefully staged videos featuring flower vases and background music. In her view, this more direct style can create the impression that the prime minister is genuinely reporting on his work each day without worrying about how flattering the camera angle is. Lastovska-Butkeviča believes this approach is effective in shaping a more positive public image.

No specific rating figures were disclosed during the discussion, but the journalists agreed that the format of public communication on social media has become one of the factors shaping voters' attitudes toward politicians and parties.