Recent studies reveal that social media and video platforms have overtaken traditional television and news websites as the main news sources in the United States. According to the Reuters Institute, platforms like Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube now make up 54% of news consumption, outpacing TV at 50% and news websites and apps at 48%
The rise of social media and personality-based news is not unique to the United States. However, changes appear to be happening quicker – and with greater consequences – than in other countries,” a study discovered. Podcaster Joe Rogan was the most popular personality, with nearly a quarter (22%) of the population indicating they had seen news or analysis from him in the last week.
Report author Nic Newman noted that the growth of social video and personality-driven news poses a serious challenge to traditional media outlets. The Reuters Institute also pointed to a growing trend where some politicians prefer engaging with sympathetic online hosts over mainstream journalists.
According to the report, populist leaders worldwide are increasingly sidestepping traditional media in favor of partisan outlets, influencers, and online personalities who are often granted exclusive access but rarely face tough questions. Many of these figures have also been linked to the spread of false or misleading information. Nearly half of global respondents (47%) identified online influencers and personalities as a significant source of misinformation, placing them on par with politicians.
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