Steven Gardiner is a doctoral student specializing in political communication within the Department of Communication at the University of Missouri, Columbia. His research focuses on the representation of third parties and the resulting societal impacts. Gardiner delves into the challenges encountered by third parties in formulating effective communication strategies within a predominantly two-party system, advocating for tailored communication models to redress this imbalance. Mass media and social media platforms stand as pivotal arenas of investigation in his scholarly pursuits. 

Gardiner earned his Master of Science in Government from the University of the West Indies, Mona, where his thesis examined the intersection of technology advancement and the rise of social media as a political communication tool. Specifically, he explored how politicians, particularly those in older demographics, have adapted their communication strategies to engage constituents through evolving mediums. His research also scrutinized the hurdles encountered by seasoned politicians in transitioning from traditional mass communication to the digital realm. 

With a dedication to unraveling the intricate dynamics of political communication, Gardiner is poised to contribute valuable insights to the academic discourse on media, social media, and political party dynamics.