The influence of technology on local politics in Blanchard, Oklahoma has been far-reaching and multifaceted. Located 25 miles south of Oklahoma City, Blanchard is a town of nearly 8,000 residents. The state of Oklahoma has a network of 29 technology centers on 60 campuses that provide high school students and adults with specialized professional training in more than 90 areas. The presence of technology has enabled citizens to become more involved in the political process.
For instance, when the annual Monarch in the Park festival failed to attract any monarch butterflies due to a lack of milkweed and pesticide use, Blanchard residents took action. They asked Oklahoma farmers to plant more milkweed, reduce pesticide use, and create a path that would be favorable to the monarch butterfly's annual migration. Technology has also enabled citizens to become more informed about local politics. Through the internet, citizens can access information about their local government and stay up-to-date on current events.
This allows them to make informed decisions when it comes to voting and participating in local politics. However, technology has also had a detrimental effect on local politics in Blanchard. As mistrust in the government increases, those who avoid conflict and those who are simply politically exhausted are withdrawing from the political process entirely. This can lead to a decrease in voter turnout and an overall decrease in civic engagement. In conclusion, technology has had both positive and negative impacts on local politics in Blanchard, Oklahoma over time.
It has enabled citizens to become more informed and engaged in the political process, but it has also led to a decrease in civic engagement due to mistrust in the government.
