Seven reasons to love local news outlets
- Jul 29, 2024
- 1 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
Reduce polarization.
National new often focuses more on partisan differences, leading Americans themselves to become more polarized. One study showed that in counties that experienced the closure of a local newspaper, voters were less likely to split their votes among multiple parties.
Provide space for community discussions.
Local news message boards and opinion pages allow community members to talk about local and national issues.
Cover important government meetings.
Don't have time to sit through hours of school board, city council, and legislature meetings? Your local journalists keep on eye on them for you.
Expose corruption and hold those in power to account.
Studies show that the closure of local newspapers leads to higher costs for taxpayers. Fewer government watchdogs can mean more inefficiency and waste.
Feature local sports, arts, and events.
Keep tabs on athletics, festivals, and other community gatherings.
Support the local economy.
Find out which new businesses are opening, check out restaurant reviews, and see what challenges and opportunities your local economy is facing.
Provide you with opportunities to take action.
Whether it's giving your information to know how to vote or shining a light on the needs of your neighbors, local news outlets supply a wealth of opportunities to engage.
Show your local news organizations some love! utilize your community media outlets and subscribe if you are financially able.
Be a conscious consumer. Engage with local news outlets.
Sources:
The Brookings Institution: Why America must revive its local newsrooms
Nieman Lab: Want to reduce political polarization? Save your local newspaper
MarketWatch: How the death of your local newspaper could cost you money
