Creating Commonality Through Storytelling? Social Media Responses to Identity Appeals in Thrifting Narratives

Abstract

ABSTRACT This article examines reactions to government officials’ disclosures about buying secondhand clothing to manage the financial obligations associated with “looking the part” when holding office. I refer to these disclosures as “thrifting narratives.” This study adopts a novel approach to analyzing the political relevance of elected officials’ physical appearance by asking: to what extent does public officials sharing thrifting narratives make them appear more relatable and help forge political commonality with the public? To answer this question, I analyze Twitter responses to a thrifting narrative shared by newly elected Representative Cori Bush in November 2020. Results of the analysis reveal that Twitter users most frequently responded to the socioeconomic dimensions of Bush’s thrifting narrative and, in this context, perceived her as an authentic leader. These findings contribute to existing literature by showcasing how wardrobe choices can operate as social class markers and be used to foster rapport with ordinary citizens.