Short Answer 
Social networking sites help political campaigns by gathering public opinion through surveys and real-time feedback, expanding their audience reach beyond traditional media, and enhancing voter engagement through interactive features that foster community around campaign agendas.
Step 1: Understanding Public Opinion
Social networking sites provide a platform where campaigns can easily gather and analyze public opinion. They allow politicians to conduct surveys, polls, and receive real-time feedback on various issues. This direct interaction helps campaigns gauge public sentiment effectively, ensuring that their messages resonate with voters.
Step 2: Expanding Campaign Reach
With traditional media often limited in scope, social networks allow political campaigns to significantly broaden their audience. Politicians can share their views, missions, and visions directly with a wide range of people without the constraints of conventional advertising. This enables them to engage with constituents on a more personal level.
Step 3: Enhancing Awareness and Engagement
Social networks facilitate greater awareness of political campaigns and issues. Through various features such as shares, likes, and comments, campaigns can encourage conversations and build a community around their agendas. This interactive approach fosters a sense of engagement among voters, making them feel more connected to the political process.