Otter’s Twitter Use Reflects Public Persona

By NW Digest Team at July 2nd, 2009.

In our continuing coverage of the Northwest political technology scene (see here, here, here, and here), below the jump is the latest reply we’ve received from the region’s three governors.

It comes from Idaho Governor Butch Otter’s press team about their engagement of citizens on Twitter.

Jon Hanian Tue, Jun 30, 2009 at 8:03 AM
To: NWDIGEST

There are several of us in the office that help with posting the Governor’s twitter updates. The Governor decides what it is he wants to talk about. For instance, he is on his annual trail ride this week that runs through Wednesday. Later today we will post a link to an audio clip of him talking about the Governor’s trail ride, what the purpose of the ride is and why he considers it important. We will make it available today on our website and post a link on Twitter. We post a tweet when we have something to say or feel a post is warranted.

We consider it and other emerging “new media” as another means of reaching constituents and communicating directly with them about the Governor’s position on issues, priorities, constituent concerns, etc. We respond to letters, e-mails, and any other communication sent to our office that requires a response. Sometimes he is personally involved in those responses, other times not. It depends on the nature of the inquiry and the issue.

Hope that answers your questions.

Best,

Jon Hanian
Press Secretary
Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter

Otter’s tweets have so far been distinguishable from his Evergreen State counterpart (Gregoire) on two accounts.

First, his tweeting solicits a more participatory response from his followers on the network. As an example, look at some of his early tweeting on the roads package that proved divisive during this year’s legislative session in Boise.

Second, whereas Gregoire trumpets working closely with the Obama Administration (and the state’s Democratic Congressional delegation), Otter’s updates come largely in his own words (more opinion, less horn tooting). Despite the fact that the Governor is not posting the updates personally, they have all the appeal of coming from him directly.

This could be a reflection of different personalities, political stripes, or even a strategic communications approach. Look for more on how Northwest politicians are using technology in future posts.

Tags: Butch Otter, Chris Gregoire, Northwest politicians, Twitter