With Election Day less than two weeks away, it's time to turn off the cable news and roll up the newspaper, because the best source of political news is arriving in 140 characters.
The savviest political reporters and analysts are increasingly turning to Twitter to promote their scoops, unveil fresh Gallup polling, or offer their own real-time analysis of the stretch run between President Obama and former Gov. Mitt Romney. Ryan Lizza and Nate Silver may not be household names, but any self-respecting political junkie should add them to the Twitter feed or risk being a step behind on the latest from the campaign trail.
(Also see our previous guides: 25 Movie Stars Worth Their Tweets, 50 Must-Follow TV Insiders, 25 Must-Follow Media Insiders, 25 Must-Follow TV Superfans, 25 Directors Whose Tweets Are Worth It)
They're not the only ones with opinions worthy of being microblogged. There are also Hollywood stars including Alec Baldwin and Albert Brooks, who offer a unique perspective on the absurdities of the modern-day political process.
Alec Baldwin (@ABFalecbaldwin)
Why you should follow: You never know which Alec you’re going to get: The firebrand who slugs it out with paparazzi or the suave and sophisticated star who is such a riot on “30 Rock.” One thing is certain, love or loathe his politics, the guy actually has a brain.
Sample political tweet: Obama is more prepared 2b Prez than Romney. Romney is prepared 2b pres of a country club. I write that w all due respect to country clubs
Be prepared for: The odd rant.
Stephen Colbert (@StephenAtHome)
Why you should follow: Colbert is funnier in 140 characters than he is on an average 30-minute episode of “The Colbert Report.” His blustery, egomaniacal character is the perfect match for a platform that rewards real-time hagiography.
Sample political tweet: Obama delivered pizza to volunteer campaign workers this weekend. He's obviously preparing for life in the private sector.
Be prepared for: Plugging for his book “America Again,” but he manages to make his sales pitch amusing.
Ashley Judd (@AshleyJudd)
Why you should follow: Who knew the “Double Jeopardy” star was such a political sage? She brings her Democratic and feminist views to bear on issues such as abortion and sex trafficking, but unlike some other stars who just gas on about their pet causes, Judd bothers to do a little research before she tweets.
Sample political tweet: Correct: Romney does not like 47m families on food stamps: he will eliminate food stamps & let struggling families & kids go even hungrier.
Be prepared for: An overabundance of bonhomie.
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