The latest poll conducted by the American Press Institute and The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research has revealed some concerning trends in how Americans view news organizations and their coverage of the 2024 election campaign.
According to the poll, about half of Americans are extremely or very concerned about news organizations reporting inaccuracies or misinformation during the election. Additionally, there is a significant worry among respondents that news outlets may use generative artificial intelligence to create stories.
The poll also found that nearly half of Americans are concerned about news outlets reporting unverified information or presenting accurate information in a biased manner. This lack of trust in the media is partly attributed to years of suspicion about journalists, fueled by politicians, and a lack of understanding about how journalism works.
Despite the high level of engagement with election news from national outlets, there is a growing disconnect between news organizations and communities. The poll suggests that news outlets need to do more to build trust with their audience and educate them about the journalistic process.
Interestingly, the poll also highlighted differences in news consumption habits based on age and political affiliation. Older adults are more likely to closely follow election news, while young people are as likely to get their news from social media or friends and family as they are from traditional news outlets.
Overall, the poll underscores the importance of accurate and unbiased reporting in shaping public opinion and ensuring informed decision-making during elections. It also points to the need for news organizations to adapt to changing consumption habits and rebuild trust with their audience.