Press Article: Social Media Creators Gain Influence Amid Ongoing Protests in Los Angeles
Los Angeles has witnessed five days of escalating protests against the Trump administration, with social media creators increasingly taking center stage in the reporting landscape. Outfitted in makeshift press gear, many of these creators, often leaning conservative, have livestreamed events on platforms like X, Twitch, and YouTube, at times outnumbering traditional reporters at the scene.
Key figures, such as Cam Higby, a 25-year-old political commentator, have been pivotal in shaping the narrative. Higby, alongside fellow creator Aldo Buttazoni, garnered millions of views by blending on-the-ground reporting with commentary, often echoing messages from Trump officials about the need for a National Guard presence amidst reported violence. Their content seeks to critique Democratic leadership, further amplifying the tension surrounding the protests.
President Trump has criticized California Governor Gavin Newsom’s handling of the situation and expressed the need for federal intervention, while Newsom argues the National Guard is unnecessary and has moved to block such actions. Over 150 arrests were reported since the protests began.
The rise of social media creators in political discourse mirrors the trend established during the Black Lives Matter movements of 2020, as noted by journalist Andrew Callaghan. However, he cautions that many right-leaning creators, while branding themselves as “independent,” often align closely with conservative media agendas, prioritizing sensational content designed for maximum engagement.
In contrast, left-leaning creators like Twitch streamer Hasan Piker have also engaged in live coverage, albeit with less prominence. As the divide between traditional journalism and social media manipulators blurs, the implications for public discourse remain significant.
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