Bots in Polotics

A bot, is a software application that runs automated tasks (scripts) over the Internet. These applications can be run continuously and used to push messages the creator endorses. Bots have become common in politics. Bots have turned into a form of automated propaganda.These efforts often occur on sites like Twitter and Facebook and are driven by the use of bots–automated, software based, accounts that look like real people, produce content, and interact with real users.

19 million bot accounts tweeted in support of either Trump or Clinton in the week leading up to Election day. Trump bots, however, outnumbered Clinton bots 5:1. Trump bots also worked in a more sophisticated fashion, working to colonize pro-clinton hashtags (like #ImWithHer) and spread fake news stories and disinformation on how to vote to potential Clinton supporters. The use of these bots has become a big tool in political elections. Bots are able to reach millions of followers every hour and push the message of the candidate they (the bots) are supporting. This brings up another interesting topic of Who is actually saying the things bots are posting and who is checking to make sure the bots are correct. This gets complicated because who's job is it really to check if the bots are actual. Bots have really played a big deal in this election and its obvious that they will continue to make an impact for years to come.