IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA IN POLITICAL DEBATE

Based on an analysis of the debate on the state of the nation in 2013 in Spain, this article analyzes the impact of social networks on political debate. The predominant content in conversations on Twitter during the week in which the debate takes place (Monday 18 February to Sunday 24 February) are defined, and the degree of interest of users with regard to other matters is compared. Then, the size and scope of the discussion in this social network is examined. User ratings of the government are analyzed, as are reactions to the evaluation of the prime minister on the situation and the meaning of user messages to the opposition leader. The study also explores the tone of the messages and checks to see if the debate on Twitter revolves around the same issues and problems that citizens consider most relevant according to data provided by the Center for Sociological Research. The results contribute to a better understanding of the impact of Twitter on public opinion.