<![CDATA[This study aims to examine the National Democratic Party (NasDem) 's strategy for utilizing social media influencers during the 2024 Bima City Regional Head Election campaign and to analyze its impact on public perception, particularly among young voters. The study employs a qualitative approach, utilizing purposive and snowball sampling techniques to select informants. The nine informants consisted of the NasDem Party Bima City Chapter Chairman, the Chapter Treasurer, an influencer, an online media manager, and five young voters. Data were collected through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation, and then analyzed using the Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña model, which involves stages of data condensation/reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The results indicate that the NasDem Party utilized local influencers based on criteria such as follower count, popularity, and the ability to foster community interaction. Platforms used included Facebook Pro, Instagram, and TikTok, with Facebook Pro deemed the most effective for reaching the Bima City community. Content included campaign activities, calls to political action, and information regarding the candidate pair's profiles, visions, missions, programs, and track records. The use of influencers contributed to increased knowledge, interest, and positive perceptions among young voters regarding the NasDem Party and its nominated candidate pair. However, influencers were not the sole determinant of political choices; voters also considered candidates' track records, competence, visions, and missions, as well as other rational factors. This study suggests that influencers are best understood as a digital political communication tool that extends message reach and strengthens political branding.]]>
