Local news is a crucial public good, essential to a functioning democracy. In towns that have lost their newspapers, researchers have documented a wide range of negative consequences including increased political polarization, fewer people running for office or attending public meetings on community issues, less civic engagement, and a diminished sense of connection to neighbors.
While many traditional local news outlets have closed or have been struggling to remain economically viable, a number of entrepreneurs have been working to fill the local journalism void and a growing share of Americans say they consume local news. This report focuses on how local communities are getting the information they need, how satisfied they are with it, and what can be done to help support and grow this important form of media.
A Definition of Local News
Our research defines local news as the content that is produced by and distributed through a variety of local media sources, including newspapers, radio stations, TV networks, and online platforms that serve a geographically defined market. The term “local media” also can be broadly interpreted to include digital platforms like online forums, social media channels, and hyperlocal websites.
When we ask those who regularly get local news how satisfied they are with the coverage, a majority of them say they are highly or very satisfied with the quality of their local news. But the picture is much more bleak when we look at individual topics. For example, with the exception of weather, a much smaller share of those who often consume news about local government, crime, or the economy are extremely or very satisfied with the quality of that coverage.