This Just In! - Local News is Dead

If you are like me you are probably thinking what in the hell just happened? The election results was obvious to some and baffling to others. Coming from a local news background and living in the number #2 media market in America, I have always valued tradition news outlets to inform me about the world around me. That is no longer the case, the decline of local news as the go-to source for information is dead. And to me, It’s a big deal and worth unpacking. So here are five major reasons I thin we’ve seen local news take a backseat in recent years.

1. The Rise of Social Media

Let’s face it—social media is everywhere. Whether it’s scrolling through your Facebook feed or catching up on TikTok, people are consuming news in bite-sized pieces. While platforms like these can be great for quick updates, they often prioritize sensationalism and misinformation over accuracy and truth. According to the PEW Research Center 54% of Americans get some portion of their news from social media. What is more alarming is Truth Social and X users respectively consume at a rate of 57% and 59%. These platforms are notorious for pushing conspiracy theories to the masses, which can devastating consequences. This shift of infusing entertainment, misinformation with sensationalism has left local news struggling to compete for our attention.
2. Advertisers are Using Other Mediums

When I used to work at WITN-TV in Greenville NC, our prime spots were morning, the 6 pm and 11 pm newscasts. There was a premium for advertisers to buy spots consistently, because their ROI was significant. Local and national companies were standing in line to run their commercials on our platform. Now, however, brands are moving to digital platforms and social media for more targeted outreach. Demographics can be pinpointed to a specific type of consumer for a more efficient ad spend. This has hit local news hard, causing budget cuts and reduced coverage.

3. Lack of Good Reporting

Journalism is not what it used to be. There was a sense of pride among reporters, getting the story correct was more important than the getting the scoop or having the "hot take" . Now most local stories that are either poorly researched or lack depth. When reporting doesn’t meet our expectations, it diminishes trust in those outlets. Audiences crave well-crafted stories that connect with their communities, and when they don’t find that, they look elsewhere.

4. Lack of Funding
No money is the root cause of bad reporting. It’s no secret that funding for local news has taken a nosedive. With shrinking revenues from advertising and subscriptions, many local stations are forced to cut costs, leading to fewer reporters and less comprehensive coverage. As PIO for several government organizations I remember writing a press release and reporters would use it just like I wrote it! As a former photo-jounalist it made me sad, but as a PIO I loved it! Without funding the reporters on the ground get paid less and have to cover more which put a strain on quality. It’s a vicious cycle that’s hard to break.

5. Fake News Distrusts
In an era where “fake news” is a household term, many people are understandably wary of any source of information. This distrust has seeped into local news, making it harder for reputable outlets to regain credibility. Some outlets abused public trust by catering to their sponsors. Shaping the news to fit a narrative, instead of the truth. Follow the money at any news outlet, then look at their stances and how they tell the story. Usually people can see through the smoke screen.

So, why should we rally behind our local news channels? Here are three compelling reasons:

A. Community Connection
Local news tells the stories that matter most to our communities—events, issues, and people that shape our lives. Supporting local outlets helps ensure those stories continue to be told. The information is specific to you and your community.

B. Accountability
You know who to contact at your local news station. Reporters are real people you see and you can get to know them. Local news holds local officials and businesses accountable. Investigative reporting can shine a light on corruption and injustices that might go unnoticed otherwise.

C. A Trusted Source
Believe it or not local news have more accountability than social or national media. Sure there are a few bad apples, but they can be spotted and corrected. In a world filled with misinformation, local news can provide reliable information tailored to your community. By supporting local journalism, you help foster a more informed public.

So, let’s not undervalue the importance of our local news. They are not just news channels; they are part of the fabric of our communities. And during these times we need a trusted media source, so why not start at home but watching your local news tonight!

Thomas Y. Lynch