In the wake of the 2024 U.S. presidential election, Donald Trump secured victories in all seven battleground states, despite a lower overall vote total compared to 2020. This outcome is interpreted as a significant rightward shift in the national electorate.
The election has triggered a crisis for mainstream media, which Trump has frequently criticized. A Pew Research report indicates that only 3% of surveyed voters identified The New York Times as their primary source of political news, while over half reported using social media platforms for news consumption.
Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris adapted their strategies to engage directly with voters, utilizing social media influencers and alternative news outlets. Trump notably joined TikTok and conducted a high-profile podcast interview with Joe Rogan, which garnered 40 million views, significantly outpacing traditional media appearances.
In contrast, mainstream media outlets are experiencing a decline in credibility and viewership. CNN and MSNBC have faced substantial losses, with MSNBC reporting a 40% drop in viewership since the election. The Los Angeles Times announced a complete overhaul of its editorial board to address declining trust in its reporting.
As the media landscape evolves, the influence of alternative news sources, such as Sky News from Australia, is on the rise, providing a platform for conservative perspectives. The shift reflects a growing discontent with traditional media narratives.