SmartNews, a global leader in news discovery, today announced the launch of Trustmark, a new awards program honoring the most trusted news outlets and journalists as chosen by the American people.
Based on a nationwide survey, SmartNews is recognizing the voices, both current and historic, that Americans trust the most.
The honorees for 2025 are:
➤Most Trusted News Outlets
- Fox News
- CNN
- ABC
- NBC
- CBS
- MSNBC
- The New York Times
- NPR
- Associated Press
- PBS
➤Most Trusted Current Journalists
- Lester Holt
- David Muir
- Anderson Cooper
- Rachel Maddow
- Tucker Carlson
- Sean Hannity
- Bret Baier
- Wolf Blitzer
- Dan Rather
- Don Lemon
➤Most Trusted Journalists of All Time
- Walter Cronkite
- Dan Rather
- Lester Holt
- Al Roker
- Barbara Walters
- Anderson Cooper
- Tom Brokaw
- Sean Hannity
- Tucker Carlson
- Peter Jennings
In an era defined by information overload and skepticism, Trustmark was created to spotlight the journalists and newsrooms that Americans don’t just encounter or follow, but deeply trust. Accordingh to SmartNews, these awards serve as a meaningful acknowledgment of the individuals and organizations that have inspired lasting trust and connection with their audiences. Beyond celebration, this initiative underscores the indispensable role they play in deepening public knowledge and strengthening the information systems that underpin the foundation of the United States.
“In today’s media landscape, trust is the most valuable currency,” said Ryosuke Saito of SmartNews. “Trustmark recognizes the individuals and outlets that have earned the public’s confidence, not merely through reporting, but through their consistent service to truth and understanding. With millions of engaged readers across the country and the political spectrum, SmartNews is uniquely positioned to honor those whose dedication and integrity have garnered the enduring respect of the American people.”
The Trustmark awards list will be updated annually based on public polling to reflect shifts in how Americans consume and trust their news. Data was collected from a survey of 1,284 U.S. adults.