Reframing connections between media and politics in the digital context: the mobilization of journalism by parliamentarians and the reorganization of the Brazilian media system

Abstract

Recent changes in the digital communication flows have transformed the relationship between the political and media spheres in Brazil over the past two decades. Although this connection is historically rooted, political instability and the ongoing crisis in journalism have blurred these ties. This is evident in the ways politicians reference media organisations and professionals, as well as in their engagement with journalistic content. Organisations, content, and professionals inherent to the media system are strategically mobilised by political actors, particularly due to the benefits and advantages they provide, and are therefore fundamental to the construction of political discourse. Despite the prominence of anti-media discourse, the media continue to serve as key sources of information, support the ideas promoted by political groups, legitimise discourses, amplify visibility, and even act as contributors to attacks against opponents. Based on 2,102 posts published by 61 Brazilian parliamentarians on X in 2024, this study seeks to systematise how such positively oriented associations are constituted in the digital sphere. The findings—derived from Content Analysis—demonstrate the complexity of the Brazilian media system and the ideological interconnections embedded in the mobilisation of media groups by political actors. Furthermore, the results highlight the centrality of mainstream media as a reference point for the political sphere and identify alternative media as actors aligned with distinct ideological groups, reinforcing the reorganization and repositioning of media groups within the media system. Finally, the study underscores the significant role of regional media, particularly in relation to the advantageous use of informational resources.