Local news refers to the reporting of events, issues and stories that impact a particular geographic area. It plays a critical role in keeping residents informed about government actions and community events and in fostering a sense of connection among communities. It also serves as a platform for public discourse and civic participation.
Local journalism is a vital pillar of a healthy democracy; it reduces political polarization, increases voting and citizen engagement, and holds officials accountable. Yet it is facing serious challenges from declining advertising revenues and competition from digital platforms. Many local outlets are struggling to maintain staff and coverage levels, while others are experimenting with new strategies, including partnerships, community journalism, crowdfunding and even raising philanthropic capital.
Amid the decline in ad revenue, many local television stations have consolidated their ownership to giant media conglomerates like Sinclair, Nexstar and Gray Television. These consolidations have led to fewer local voices in the newsroom and have left many viewers feeling that they do not receive the full range of local news coverage they need. Local news is an important source of information for communities, but the way in which it is framed and prioritized can have significant impacts on public perceptions of community issues such as crime rates or economic development.