Local Papers, Radio Trusted More Than National Newspapers

America’s Newspapers Foundation commissioned the Trusted Media Study to understand and reinforce the unique role of local newspapers in building trust with their communities.

Conducted by Coda Ventures, the national study highlighted how local newspapers stand apart from national and digital media channels, consistently earning a higher level of public trust through transparency, accuracy, and ethical journalism. Results of the survey were released Oct. 29, but America’s Newspapers plans to release more survey results in the coming weeks.

Key findings from the Trust in Media Study include:

• Local newspapers hold key place of trust — Local newspapers hold a unique place in the American media landscape, trusted by more than half of readers to deliver accurate, community-focused reporting. While other media sources face challenges with credibility, local newspapers are seen as essential members of the community focused on  integrity and delivering news that resonates personally and authentically with local audiences.
• National news faces trust deficit — Misinformation continues to shake Americans’ faith in national media, with three-quarters expressing significant concerns about false news from larger outlets. As trust in national sources wanes, the spotlight falls on local newspapers as a reliable counterpoint, connecting readers with fact-checked, accountable news that serves their community. 
• A decline in media trust, but local newspapers hold strong — Trust in media is on the decline for many outlets, but local news remains a trusted constant. While confidence in national outlets dips, local newspapers continue to earn readers’ trust through commitment to community-focused, fact-checked journalism.
• Americans call out media for misinformation — Social media and cable networks are viewed as the primary drivers behind false news, with local media seen as significantly more trustworthy. Local newspapers, in particular, maintain a reputation for responsibility, reinforcing their role as stewards of accurate information in the midst of widespread distrust.