Donald Trump’s decisive reelection victory this month has led to much reflection, not just among Democrats and progressives, but also within the legacy news media. Many have come to realize they significantly misread the national sentiment, failing to grasp what most voters were actually thinking and feeling. This miscalculation is part of why trust in the media is at record lows, with only 31% of Americans expressing confidence, according to recent reports.
No surprise, ratings have tanked at networks like MSNBC, and there are whispers about major layoffs at CNN as they attempt to mitigate declines in viewership. Even ABC’s daytime talk show, “The View,” which previously seemed to promote Vice President Kamala Harris, is rumored to be considering the inclusion of “pro-Trump” voices to broaden its appeal.
Meanwhile, Fox News, often critiqued by liberals, has thrived, enjoying dominant ratings and welcoming a growing audience. New cable startup NewsNation has also seen significant growth over the years, aiming to cater to viewers who are disillusioned with the partisanship of longstanding media outlets.
Chris Cuomo, formerly of CNN and now hosting “Cuomo” on NewsNation, shared insights on the electoral climate, the role of media, and his vision for rebuilding trust within journalism. His view is clear: the traditional two-party system is toxic, and the increase of independent voters is promising. Cuomo expressed optimism about the growing independent vote, stating it reflects a shift away from strong party allegiance.
Cuomo pointed out the trust deficit surrounding the media as a significant issue, noting its steep decline from its peak of 72% trust back in 1976 to the current low. He attributes this decline to the media’s partisanship and its tendency to prioritize sensationalism over factual reporting. The result? Viewers increasingly tune out, seeking alternatives they believe provide less biased information.
This dissatisfaction has fueled the growth of platforms like NewsNation, which aims to empower independent thought and provide balanced perspectives on issues. Cuomo believes this approach is integral to the future of media, emphasizing the need for conversations free of preconceived biases and nurturing independent thinking.
The recent election has highlighted what some refer to as the failure of Democrats to connect with the average voter. Cuomo argues this disconnect led to many voters, especially within urban areas, simply abstaining from the election rather than casting ballots for Democratic candidates.
Sparking contention will be the way media handles Trump during his second term, especially as many fear the potential return of misinformation and hate speech. Some media figures worry about Trump’s tendency to blur the lines between facts and fiction, presenting challenges for responsible news reporting without alienation of his supporters.
Cuomo suggests taking a philosophical approach to reporting on Trump, encouraging journalists to focus on the facts rather than reactive commentary. He also calls for patience, urging the media to assess the actions stemming from Trump’s decisions rather than rushing to judgment.
Overall, as the nation navigates this new political terrain, the media finds itself at a crossroads. With audiences splitting along party lines, the challenge remains: how to report effectively and truthfully without sacrificing integrity or pushing away potential viewers. This situation demands innovation and adaptability, particularly for established networks struggling to keep pace with more nimble competitors.
