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Most Americans Believe Media Scrutiny Keeps Politicians Accountable

Most Americans Believe Media Scrutiny Keeps Politicians Accountable
Credit: Kent Nishimura/Getty Images

U.S.(Washington Insider Magazine) – As they have for decades, a majority of Americans believe that media scrutiny plays a crucial role in keeping political leaders accountable. According to a September 2024 Pew Research Center survey, 74% of Americans say that media criticism prevents politicians from engaging in misconduct. However, views on media scrutiny shift depending on which party is in power.

Shifting Partisan Views on Media Scrutiny

While 81% of Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents believe media scrutiny serves as a necessary check on political leadership, only 66% of Republicans and GOP leaners share this sentiment. Historically, partisan attitudes have fluctuated following presidential elections.

For example, before Donald Trump’s 2016 election, 77% of Republicans supported media scrutiny. However, after Trump took office, that number dropped to 48% in 2017 and 42% in 2018. A similar trend was observed during George W. Bush’s presidency, reflecting how support for media oversight often depends on which party holds power.

Do Americans Believe News Coverage Is Fair?

Despite broad agreement on the importance of media scrutiny, many Americans remain skeptical of the media’s fairness. 77% of U.S. adults believe that news organizations favor one side in political and social issues, while only 22% think media coverage is fair and balanced.

Partisan divides are evident here as well. 88% of Republicans say the media favors one side, compared to 67% of Democrats. These perceptions have remained consistent since 2020, underscoring a long-standing distrust of the media’s objectivity.

The Enduring Debate on Media’s Role

Since the mid-1980s, Pew Research has tracked attitudes toward media accountability, with results reflecting ongoing political dynamics. While most Americans agree that media scrutiny serves as a check on power, their perspectives are often influenced by partisan affiliations and the prevailing political landscape.

As the 2024 presidential transition unfolds, media credibility and its role in governance will remain central to the national conversation.

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