US (Washington Insider Magazine) – As the 2024 U.S. election unfolds, Americans are relying on a diverse range of news sources for political coverage. A recent survey highlights that while traditional TV networks like Fox News and CNN remain dominant, online platforms and social media are also key players in shaping public opinion.
Fox News and CNN Lead Political News Coverage
According to the survey, Fox News is the most cited political news source, with 13% of Americans naming it as their primary outlet. It remains particularly popular among older adults, with 22% of those aged 65 and above choosing Fox News compared to only 5% of adults under 30.
CNN follows closely, with 10% of Americans identifying it as their main source of political news. However, this reflects a decline from 2021, when 14% of respondents favored CNN for election coverage.
Other Notable Political News Sources
Beyond Fox News and CNN, at least 2% of Americans rely on these outlets for political updates:
- Local TV stations
- National TV networks (ABC, NBC, CBS, MSNBC)
- NPR (the only radio source in the top 10)
- The New York Times (the only major traditional newspaper)
- X (formerly Twitter), a rising destination for news consumption
Interestingly, about 32% of Americans mention sources outside the top 10, while 17% either don’t have a primary news source or declined to answer.
Do Americans View Their News as Mainstream?
A key finding of the survey is Americans’ perception of “mainstream media.” Among those who rely on CNN, 84% consider it part of the mainstream media, while only 5% disagree.
For Fox News viewers, 61% say it is mainstream, but a notable 28% believe it is not, showing a division in perception. Similarly, 19% of NPR users think their news outlet does not belong to the mainstream.
Political Affiliation and Media Perception
Partisan divides also shape views on the mainstream media:
- 72% of Democrats and left-leaning voters believe their main news source is mainstream.
- 48% of Republicans and right-leaning voters share this view, while 36% say their preferred source is not mainstream.
The Changing Landscape of Political News
The findings highlight the evolving nature of political news consumption in the U.S. While TV remains a dominant medium, digital platforms, social media, and alternative sources continue to rise. As the 2024 election nears, Americans are navigating a fragmented and politically charged news environment.
