Technological innovations in communication have fundamentally reshaped the patterns of political campaigning, particularly through the widespread adoption of instant messaging applications such as WhatsApp. This study critically examines the dynamics of effectiveness and ethical dilemmas inherent in political campaign practices conducted within this semi-private digital space, which has become a strategic medium for legislative candidates, campaign teams, and the voting public. Employing a normative juridical qualitative approach based on literature review—including academic journals, books, official reports, articles, and relevant regulations—the findings indicate that WhatsApp is highly effective in reaching constituents and shaping political opinions through its personalized communication and rapid message dissemination. Nevertheless, the platform also poses critical challenges, including the proliferation of disinformation, psychological pressure on users, unequal access to digital technology, and the limited scope of regulations governing private communication spaces. This study underscores the importance of strengthening digital literacy, developing credible information verification systems, and formulating responsive policies that align with the evolving dynamics of digital communication to promote more ethical and inclusive political campaigning through platforms such as WhatsApp.
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