top of page
Writer's pictureInsightTrendsWorld

Insight of the Day: How Americans Get Local Political News

Summary of Pew Research Center Survey on Local News

Findings:

  • Most Americans are interested in local news, especially about laws, policies, and elections, but interest in national politics remains higher.

  • Satisfaction with local political news coverage is low, with only a quarter of those who follow it expressing high satisfaction.

  • Many find it difficult to access information needed for local voting decisions.

  • Sources of local political news include friends/family, local news outlets, social media, government websites, nonprofits, and politicians.

  • Younger adults rely more on social media, while older adults turn to local news and politicians.

  • Stronger community attachment correlates with higher interest in local news, greater satisfaction with coverage, and easier access to information.

Key Takeaway:

A significant gap exists between Americans' interest in local news and their satisfaction with its quality and accessibility.

Trend:

Declining trust and satisfaction in traditional media, coupled with increasing reliance on social media for news, especially among younger demographics.

Consumer Motivation:

Desire to be informed about local issues that directly impact their lives and communities, and to participate effectively in local decision-making processes.

Driving Trend:

The evolving media landscape, with the decline of local news outlets and the rise of digital platforms, is reshaping how people consume and perceive news.

Target Audience:

American adults of all ages, with varying levels of interest in and engagement with local news, and differing preferences for news sources.

Product/Service:

Local news coverage, encompassing information about local government, politics, elections, laws, policies, and community affairs.

Conclusions:

The findings highlight the need for improved local news coverage that caters to diverse audiences, addresses information gaps, and fosters greater community engagement.

Implications for Brands (News Outlets):

  • Invest in high-quality, relevant, and accessible local news content.

  • Diversify platforms and formats to reach different demographics.

  • Rebuild trust and credibility through transparency and accountability.

  • Foster community engagement through interactive features and dialogue.

Implications for Society:

Informed and engaged citizens are essential for a healthy democracy. By providing reliable and accessible local news, we can empower individuals to make informed decisions, hold local officials accountable, and actively participate in shaping their communities.

1 view0 comments

Comments


bottom of page