Congresswoman Chellie Pingree says online tools like Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter also key to connecting with her constituents
 
A recently released report from the Pew Research Center says Americans are turning to government websites in large numbers to access information and services. Congresswoman Chellie Pingree thinks the trend is encouraging for efforts to make government more transparent, responsive and engaging.
 
“With more and more people getting news and information online, they expect their government to offer the same kind of easy-to-access, up-to-the-minute information,” said Pingree. “Frankly, there is no reason we can’t. I use a range of online tools to communicate with constituents what I’m doing in Washington and here in Maine because that’s where people want to get it.”
 
Constituents can get daily updates on issues in Maine and Washington from Pingree by “Liking” her page on Facebook; subscribing to her YouTube channel ; and “following” her on Twitter.

The report found that 31 percent of Internet users used social media tools like blogs and social networking sites to keep informed on government activities.  Respondents also said they think these tools are helping make government more accessible and transparent.
 
“I think what these resources are allowing us to do is great. Things happen very fast in Washington and the online tools out there allow me to give updates and get feedback on legislation just as quickly,” said Pingree. “At the same time it offers a venue for a lively and important dialogue on the issues.  I don’t post to Twitter so I can hear myself talk.  I do it because I know people will respond. ” 
 
Surveying people on their Internet activities over the last year, the report also found that:
·     48 percent of Internet users have looked for information about a public policy or issue online with their local, state, or federal government

·     40 percent have gone online for raw data on government activities

·     23 percent have looked online to see what stimulus funds are doing in their community

The Pew report is available online.