Americans’ Engagement with Election News and Trust in Media Outlets: Poll Findings and Analysis

The latest poll conducted by the American Press Institute reveals that half of Americans rely on national news outlets for their election news, with older respondents showing a higher percentage. However, despite this level of engagement, there is a significant lack of trust in the information being provided.

Michael Bolden, CEO of the American Press Institute, expressed concern over the lack of trust in news sources, attributing it to years of suspicion fueled by politicians and a general unfamiliarity with how journalism works. Only about 1 in 10 respondents have a great deal of confidence in the information they receive from national or local news outlets regarding the 2024 elections.

Bolden emphasized the need for news organizations to bridge the growing disconnect between journalists and communities by educating the public on the role of journalists and fostering a sense of trust. He suggested that outlets should take on a convenor role, bringing people together for newsworthy events.

The poll also highlighted a generational divide in news consumption, with older adults showing more engagement in presidential, local, and state election news compared to younger adults. Young people under 30 are just as likely to get election news from social media or friends and family as they are from traditional news outlets.

Democrats are more likely to rely on national news outlets for election news compared to Republicans and independents. Republicans, in particular, expressed concerns about inaccurate information and misinformation in news coverage, as well as a focus on division and controversies rather than issues or candidate character.

Overall, most Americans expressed a desire for national and local news outlets to highlight candidates’ values and positions on key social issues to make informed decisions about the upcoming elections. The poll, conducted from March 21-25, 2024, surveyed 2,468 adults and has a margin of error of plus or minus 2.9 percentage points.