Connecting with Your Government

U.S. President Barack Obama engages the audience at an “Open for

Questions” online town hall meeting.

By Ed Martinez

June 22, 2009

In March, we witnessed the President of the United of States in what the White House says is the first “online town hall” meeting by a president. During the meeting, the president solicited questions from participants, and actually answered some of them during the live webcast.

According to the White House, almost one hundred thousand participants joined, and more than three and a half million votes were cast during the historic event. For them, it was “eye-opening experience” and demonstrated how this technology can offer open engagement like never before.

The U.S. Federal government is on the right track by making it easier for the general public to become more involved by expanding their online resources. Over the past few months, we have seen various federal agencies allow users to follow them on social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter. They have also delivered presentations on proposals through photos and videos. “Your government is delivering online content in new ways and venues as technology impacts how and where people consume content,” said Macon Phillips, the Director of New Media at the White House. Mr. Phillips’ new media efforts center around three themes:  Communication, transparency and participation.

The White House official web site, WhiteHouse.gov, features in-depth content for keeping everyone up-to-date on the latest news and events. You can even sign up for e-mail updates and RSS feeds from the President and his administration. According to Phillips, the administration is committed to being open and transparent, and believes the Internet will play an important role in making that happen. For example, the President’s executive orders and proclamations have been published online for the American people to review. Non-emergency legislation is also available for review and comment before the President signs it.

You can expect more resources to become available soon. The new websites, blogs, and social networks are just the beginning. This is the time for you to participate as a United States citizen—a time for you to voice your opinion by agreeing or disagreeing with our country’s direction. Remember Abraham Lincoln’s words when he said, “This is government of the people, by the people, for the people.”  With the advancements of technology, this sentiment rings true for more Americans than ever before.