The proliferation of social media has altered the way that people interact with each other - leveling the channels of communication to allow an individual to be "friends" with a sitting president. In a world where a citizen can message Barack Obama directly, this book addresses the new channels of communication in politics, and what they offer.

"The Social Media President is a fascinating and instructive analysis and critique of the use of social media by President Obama. I heartily recommend it." - Fred I. Greenstein, Professor of Politics Emeritus, Princeton University, USA

"Obama's political campaign machine broke all sorts of fundraising records and media outreach goals. But as The Social Media President reveals, the more important and lasting story has to do with the transformation of the office of the presidency. There are important differences between the role of digital media in Obama's campaign and his administration. These authors reveal that while some presidential initiatives have made innovative use of social media, even the highest political office holder in the land can't crowd-source everything." - Philip N. Howard, Professor, University of Washington, USA