Local news has a long tradition in America, but the way we consume it is changing. This year, only about one-third of Americans say they get news from their local TV station (or cable or satellite provider). Many more turn to a variety of other sources for their local news, including online forums and personal networks.
When it comes to reporting on political and civic affairs, local TV news has a unique role to play. But the routine occurrences of community life—that is, what’s happening at city or town hall, how are local schools doing and why aren’t they fixing that huge pothole on Main Street?—aren’t in the wheelhouse of local TV. That’s typically the territory of local newspapers and, in some cases, a few types of digital startups.
In general, Americans have a positive view of the civic functions local news outlets fulfill: About three-quarters say local media do an excellent or good job of keeping people informed; one-third say they serve as watchdogs for their community and amplify positive stories about the area; and four in 10 say they help citizens hold local officials and institutions accountable for their actions.
However, Americans’ opinions about local news differ by political leaning and age. More Republicans and Republican-leaning independents express doubts about whether local news is doing its job well in terms of holding government accountable and helping citizens participate in civic life, while more Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents have positive views. Views also differ by region, with urban residents being more likely than those in rural areas to say they get plenty of local news.
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