TRUST IN MEDIA
In an era marked by increasing media distrust, America’s Newspapers commissioned the Trusted Media Study to understand and reinforce the unique role of local newspapers in building trust with their communities. Conducted by Coda Ventures, this national survey highlights how local newspapers stand apart from national and digital media channels, consistently earning a higher level of public trust through transparency, accuracy, and ethical journalism. This study not only underscores the essential function of local newspapers as trusted community watchdogs but also emphasizes their role in bridging the gap left by other media in the era of misinformation.
The following are key findings from the Trust in Media Study. Further details will be released in the coming weeks.
The following are key findings from the Trust in Media Study. Further details will be released in the coming weeks.
Americans Value Truth in Local News
|
Local Newspapers: Trusted Like No Other
Local newspapers hold a unique place in the American media landscape, trusted by more than half of readers to deliver accurate, community-focused reporting. While other media sources face challenges with credibility, local newspapers are seen as essential members of the community focused on integrity and delivering news that resonates personally and authentically with local audiences. |
|
Credibility Concerns with National Media
|
National News Faces Trust Deficit
Misinformation continues to shake Americans' faith in national media, with three-quarters expressing significant concerns about false news from larger outlets. As trust in national sources wanes, the spotlight falls on local newspapers as a reliable counterpoint, connecting readers with fact-checked, accountable news that serves their community. |
|
Impact of Misinformation on Trust
|
Misinformation Hurts Trust Across Society
The ripple effects of misinformation are deeply felt across society, eroding Americans’ trust in government, community, and even personal relationships. Local newspapers play a critical role in restoring this trust, providing clarity and accountability in their reporting that empowers communities to reconnect through shared truth. |
|
Perceived Responsibility for Misinformation
|
Americans Call Out Media for Misinformation
Social media and cable networks are viewed as the primary drivers behind false news, with local media seen as significantly more trustworthy. Local newspapers, in particular, maintain a reputation for responsibility, reinforcing their role as stewards of accurate information in the midst of widespread distrust. |
|
Decline in Trust Across Media Outlets |
|
A Decline in Media Trust—But Local Newspapers Holds Strong
Trust in media is on the decline for many outlets, but local news remains a trusted constant. While confidence in national outlets dips, local newspapers continue to earn readers’ trust through commitment to community-focused, fact-checked journalism. |
|
Trusted Qualities in Local Media
Why Americans Trust Local Newspapers: Transparency and Ethics
Local newspapers lead in trustworthiness by prioritizing transparency, ethical standards, and dedication to community issues. These attributes set local newspapers apart, reflecting readers' desire for unbiased, trustworthy news that values community impact over clicks.
Local newspapers lead in trustworthiness by prioritizing transparency, ethical standards, and dedication to community issues. These attributes set local newspapers apart, reflecting readers' desire for unbiased, trustworthy news that values community impact over clicks.
|
|
The Unique Role of Local Newspapers
|
Local Newspapers: A Pillar of Community and Democracy
Americans overwhelmingly agree that local newspapers are essential for community and democracy, informing and empowering citizens to make thoughtful decisions. Local news helps sustain the democratic fabric of towns and cities by holding officials accountable and fostering a well-informed community. |
|
The Community Impact of Losing Local News
|
Without Local News, Communities Suffer
Three-quarters of Americans believe that losing a local newspaper would harm their community. Local newspapers act as a watchdog and a source of cohesion, reinforcing the sense of place and shared values that help communities thrive. |
|
|
Survey conducted by:
|
Generously sponsored by:
|