Social media significantly shapes public perceptions of leaders by facilitating direct communication between politicians and citizens. Platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram allow leaders to share their messages instantly and engage with the public in real time. This can enhance transparency and provide insight into their values and actions. However, social media also enables the rapid spread of misinformation and polarized views, which can negatively impact perceptions and public trust. As citizens increasingly rely on social media for news, understanding its influence on public perceptions and political engagement is crucial for fostering informed and critical political discourse.