House Republicans launch third new media contest

{mosads}The number of House Republicans participating in the challenge has grown every year. According to McMorris Rodgers’s office, 90 members have signed up to participate in the third year of the friendly competition.

Over the three years House Republicans have held the challenge, overall new media use by members of the conference has increased from 30 percent of House Republicans on YouTube, Facebook and Twitter to 85 percent, according to McMorris Rodgers.

McMorris Rodgers has sought to advance House Republicans’ use of social media since becoming co-chairwoman of the Republican New Media Caucus. She also rewards “novel” attempts by member offices to drum up new followers during the contest by showcasing successful efforts.

Much like last year, House Republican contenders will battle in brackets for Twitter followers, Facebook “likes” and YouTube video views in order to win the challenge. The first week will serve as a qualification round, and a winner will be determined in the final elimination round the first week of June.

Rep. John Fleming (La.) won the last two contests in a row.