The landscape of local news in the U.S. has changed significantly in recent decades as Americans have been turning away from print and television and toward digital media. In 2025, 21% of Americans say they follow local news very closely, down from 37% in 2016.
When a breaking news event happens, 36% of U.S. adults say they typically turn first to their preferred news organization to get more information.
The ways Americans get news and information have transformed dramatically in the 21st century. The news habits of the youngest adults reflect this shift – and may offer some insight into what the future holds.
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75 million Americans used the internet in the last campaign to get political news and information, discuss candidates and debate issues in emails, or participate directly in the political process by volunteering or giving contributions to candidates….
More and more people are streaming clips online thanks to broadband.
A review of Pew Research Center for the People & the Press findings
As wired Americans increasingly go online for political news and commentary, we find that the internet is contributing to a wider awareness of political views during this year’s campaign season.
Debates More Important to Young Voters
Journalists are unhappy with the way things are going in their profession these days. This report is part of Pew Research Center’s 2004 State of the News Media publication.
