In Florida, technology has played a starring role in both Republican and Democrat attempts at organizing around the debate on health care. From the viral videos that came out of a Tampa town hall event to change a nationwide debate, to the extensive use of email organizing from groups like MoveOn.org and the Florida Democratic Party, technology has played a major role in organizing supporters and opponents of the President's health care plan.Tomorrow, Florida State Representative Matt Hudson takes it to the next level with what he is calling a TweetTownHall. The concept behind the TweetTownHall is an interesting one - while offline town halls are being hosted by Representative Hudson in his district, the panelists will be taking questions via the @TweetTownHall Twitter account. More details on the event can be found at TweetTownHall.com.
Perhaps what is most interesting about this town hall is the fact that a State Legislator is using Twitter to bring a national debate down to the local level, while still allowing for input across the globe via Twitter. Undoubtedly, there is a push among young up-and-coming Legislators in Florida (and I would guess in other states as well) to quickly build a brand as the elected officials who "get" technology and the internet. Kudos to those doing it right.
