Former White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs made news in February 2010 when he officially entered the social networking universe. With a username of @PressSec, he solicited advice – in fewer than 140 characters – about how best to use a new medium of communication: “Learning about ‘the twitter’ – easing into this with first tweet – any tips?” Mr. Gibbs would soon learn that he would have no trouble acquiring the tricks of the trade; indeed, many of his colleagues in the White House and on Capitol Hill were already proficient users.

Consider the bipartisan congressional Twitter response to revelations about South Carolina governor Mark Sanford's extramarital affair. On June 25, 2009, Congressman Bob Inglis (R-SC) took to the keyboard to comment on the governor's personal transgressions: “Not one of us is capable of fully living the truths we proclaim. Each of us is dependent on grace. I’m praying Psalm 51 for Mark Sanford.” U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill (D-MO) wrote, “This place loves to dwell on tragic comedy of infidelity. I feel for this man's family. What are these guys thinking of? I truly don't get it.” Congressman Jared Polis (D-CO) took the news more personally, tweeting, “I got bumped from Hardball tonight because Gov Sanford had an affair with a woman in Argentina.”