Although some provide no more substantive information than the lowliest talk radio program, others contribute to thoughtful communication. Finally, because many sites permit users to e-mail candidates directly, there is a type of interaction that is not possible through more traditional campaign communications. And the Problems Whether the advantages of the Internet will be fully realized will depend in part on whether a number of obstacles can be overcome. There is a real concern that the negativity and cynicism that permeates televised campaign discourse and election coverage will seep into the Internet. Candidate web pages are at risk of becoming little more than on-line campaign ads.
Unaccountable groups posting misleading web pages are already a problem.
The Internet can also lead to information overload. There are so many sites linking to so many other sites that there is a chance users will get tired, frustrated or overwhelmed. Another concern is that the Internet's speed will hasten the spread of rumors and misinformation and decrease users' ability to engage in deliberative discourse. Finally, until the Internet becomes universal, there is risk that the poor will be excluded from on-line politics. F eatures of Effective Political Web Sites Political activity on the Net takes many forms, from sites proclaiming the virtues of one party or candidate over another, to scrupulously nonpartisan suppliers of political information.