News Hole: The Demise of Local Journalism and Political Engagement

The decline of local journalism has contributed to a decrease in civic engagement in the US, as fewer Americans know who their local elected officials are and turnout in local elections has plummeted. To reverse this trend, the local news industry must be reinvigorated.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 250 pages
Publication date: 16 September 2021
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

In recent decades, the United States has witnessed a remarkable surge in voter turnout during presidential elections, accompanied by historic highs in educational attainment. Moreover, the widespread availability of the internet has facilitated unprecedented access to information. However, despite these positive developments, Americans have become increasingly disinterested in local politics and elections. This study, based on a comprehensive analysis of fifteen years of reporting in over 200 local newspapers, along with election returns, surveys, and interviews with journalists, reveals that the decline of local journalism has played a significant role in this disengagement.

As struggling newspapers have reduced their staff, they have significantly curtailed their coverage of mayors, city halls, school boards, county commissions, and virtually every aspect of local government. Consequently, fewer Americans are aware of the identities of their local elected officials, and turnout in local elections has experienced a sharp decline.

To reverse this trend and uphold democratic accountability in our communities, the local news industry must be revitalized urgently. The decline of local journalism has left a void that needs to be filled, as it is crucial for citizens to have access to accurate and comprehensive information about their local government. Reinforcing the local news industry can help ensure that citizens are well-informed and engaged, which in turn can lead to increased civic participation and a stronger democracy.

One potential solution to revitalize the local news industry is to support and promote community-based journalism. This approach involves empowering local reporters to cover their communities and provide in-depth reporting on local issues. By investing in community-based journalism, citizens can gain a deeper understanding of the issues that affect their daily lives and have a greater say in the decisions that shape their communities.

In addition, governments and organizations can play a role in supporting local journalism. This can include providing funding for local newspapers, offering training and resources to journalists, and promoting the importance of local news to citizens. By working together, these stakeholders can help ensure that the local news industry remains strong and sustainable, providing the information that citizens need to be informed and engaged.

Furthermore, individuals can also contribute to the revitalization of local journalism by supporting and engaging with local news outlets. This can include subscribing to local newspapers, attending community events, and sharing information on social media. By doing so, individuals can help ensure that local news outlets remain viable and continue to provide the valuable service of reporting on local issues.

In conclusion, the decline of local journalism has had a significant impact on civic engagement in the United States. To reverse this trend and preserve democratic accountability in our communities, the local news industry must be reinvigorated. By supporting and promoting community-based journalism, investing in the local news industry, and engaging with local news outlets, we can help ensure that citizens are well-informed and engaged, and that our democracy remains strong and resilient.

Weight: 360g
Dimension: 151 x 228 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108819848