Rep. Tim Burchett’s Unique Social Media Strategy

Rep. Tim Burchett from Tennessee takes a different stance on social media compared to his congressional peers. While many politicians focus on polished media strategies—thoughtfully crafting topics with teams, selecting ideal backdrops, and filming multiple takes—Burchett opts for a simpler, more authentic approach. He shares real-time thoughts on current issues, often just recording himself on his phone, reminiscent of a casual family call from a relative.

During a recent discussion in his Washington, D.C. office, he briefly explained his perspective on unfiltered social media. In an environment where political authenticity often feels staged, Burchett aims to provide a genuine glimpse into his life on Capitol Hill.

His content includes videos where he talks and walks—whether navigating the halls of Congress, sipping Mountain Dew, riding his longboard, or introducing viewers to his miniature donkeys from Tennessee.

Reflecting on the initial reactions to his videos, Burchett recalled how people teased him about his voice. “I thought, well, I might as well do it. I’m not doing anything else,” he remarked.

He learned from other Congress members that many have dedicated “Twitter teams” that produce and edit their videos. “They make videos just like mine, but they polish them,” he noted, expressing a preference for his raw, everyday musings instead.

“No one’s bringing up these topics, but I am,” he added. Burchett takes charge of his social media presence, often using his phone to candidly address whatever’s on his mind.

One day, a woman approached him and said she enjoyed his Instagram content, comparing it humorously to Walmart. Burchett responded appreciatively, emphasizing the importance of sharing information.

While traveling, he often captures moments for his X account, mentioning that although he doesn’t consider himself especially attractive, he feels popular among constituents when he thanks them in airports.

Burchett, age 60, connects well with younger audiences. He mentioned attending a University of Tennessee soccer game where students asked for “shameless selfies.” He believes these interactions make him more relatable, even to those who don’t always support his voting decisions.

He engaged public relations experts when he first started, and while every campaign has their consultants, Burchett has found that his authentic method resonates more than the polished alternatives.

His Southern charm and humor are evident in his posts, and he keeps things respectful. “I won’t curse; I have an 18-year-old daughter,” he said, adding that he believes in behaving well despite the sometimes abrasive nature of politics.

Burchett’s humor has occasionally gotten him into hot water, especially regarding his slightly sarcastic comments about “trackers”—those who follow politicians closely to capture their actions. Despite some accusations of staging interactions, Burchett insists that his tracker is an independent contractor acting on his own, and he wouldn’t pay someone to do that.

“I’m a Christian; I try not to be harsh,” he mentioned. He expressed compassion towards the tracker, even offering him drinks during hot days, recalling a moment when he joked about turning the tracker into a “national star.” His social media experiences have taught him to develop a thick skin, especially after facing negativity online.

“Some of these accounts have about 36 followers, and I want them to engage me, because when they do, they expose their nonsense to my 300,000 followers,” he explained. “When I respond, it usually doesn’t go well for them.”

On summing up his social media presence, Burchett chose the word “blessing.” It appears his unique strategy is working for him in connecting with a diverse audience.