Taylor Lorenz on Joe Rogan, Joe Biden and goodbye to big media.
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Deep Dive
Why won't Democrats build their own Joe Rogan?
Democrats already had Joe Rogan, who endorsed Bernie Sanders in 2020 and supports leftist policies. The issue is that the Democratic Party doesn't understand the media landscape, especially the YouTube and content creator ecosystem, which the right has invested decades and billions of dollars into building.
Why is the right better at building a media ecosystem than the left?
The right has invested heavily in influencer-driven media for decades, creating a network of funders, organizations, and collaborations like the Daily Wire and Barstool Sports. This ecosystem is supported by cross-pollination and outreach, which the left lacks. Additionally, progressive content creators, who dominate the left online, are often anti-capitalist and not aligned with Democratic Party interests.
Why didn't Kamala Harris go on Joe Rogan's show?
Kamala Harris likely avoided Joe Rogan because of his vaccine skepticism and controversial views. However, engaging with such platforms is essential for reaching broader audiences, as seen with Bernie Sanders' appearance on Rogan's show, which was politically expedient despite criticism.
Why are progressive content creators not aligned with the Democratic Party?
Progressive content creators often have anti-capitalist and anti-billionaire views, which conflict with the Democratic Party's reliance on funding from wealthy donors. Additionally, these creators are not interested in toeing the party line, making them less useful to the Democrats despite their cultural relevance.
Why did Taylor Lorenz leave The Washington Post?
Taylor Lorenz left The Washington Post after her editor, Mark Seibel, retired. She had always wanted to go independent and own her work, as she felt constrained by traditional media structures. Her decision was also influenced by the Post's internal changes and her desire to prioritize her own brand and career over institutional interests.
How does the right use online media to influence elections?
The right has built a comprehensive online media ecosystem, investing in influencer-driven platforms like YouTube and podcasts. They engage with content creators, court them, and integrate them into their broader political strategy, creating a network of influence that mobilizes voters and shapes narratives.
What role did TikTok play in the 2024 election?
TikTok played a minor role in the 2024 election, primarily as a platform for discussion and debate. However, its political influence is suppressed due to government scrutiny, and it has pivoted away from overt political content to focus on entertainment and shopping.
What challenges does the left face in engaging with online creators?
The left struggles to engage with online creators because progressive influencers often challenge Democratic policies and are not aligned with the party's interests. Additionally, the left lacks the funding and collaborative infrastructure that the right has built over decades.
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