A news outlet is a place where information and stories about current events are broadcast or published. It can include newspapers, television channels or social media sites. In the United States, the term “the press” is often used to refer to the mainstream American news industry, which includes all print, radio, and television publications.
The news industry has evolved in many ways since the founding of America. The First Amendment protects freedom of the press and gives journalists a powerful voice in society. The press plays a crucial role in democracy by allowing citizens to hold those in power accountable.
Different media outlets prioritize stories in different ways, and the way they present news can influence public opinion. For example, an advocacy journalism news outlet may frame a story to fit one viewpoint and leave out important information that might contradict the narrative. This type of bias can have a negative impact on the credibility of the news outlet and on the public’s perception of important issues.
Americans get news on a variety of digital platforms, but the most common are news websites or apps and search engines. Two-thirds of Americans say they often or sometimes get news on these platforms, while fewer use radio and a small number turn to print publications for their news. In addition, some people get their news on social media and in podcasts. This data is based on a nationally representative survey of U.S. adults conducted in 2024.
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