The Role of Mass Media A medium is a means of communication (transmits information) 1. Television: Principle source of political information. 2. Internet: Replacing newspapers with political news. 3. Newspapers: Still a major source of political information. 4. Radio: Radio has been a source of news since 1920. 5. Magazines: Many magazines are devoted to American news & politics. Important political force, but that’s not their purpose People get most of their political and governmental matter from the media

The Media and Politics Electoral Politics TV allows candidates to appeal directly to the people. Candidates try to use media coverage to their advantage. Newscasts featuring candidates are usually short, focused sound bites— reports that can be aired in 30 to 45 seconds or less.

Sensationalism Media Induced Controversies

Political Sensationalism

Television TV and Politics: Have gone hand and hand since TV was invented (1939 – FDR short speech) WWII interrupted TV’s progress, but by the late 1940’s they were regularly available First transcontinental broadcast was when Truman spoke from Washington, DC to San Francisco in 1951 Today, more people have TV’s than indoor plumbing TV replaced newspapers as chief news source in 1960’s and is the principle source of news for 80% of people

Newspapers Newspapers in America: First regularly published newspaper began in 1704 (Boston News-Letter) Many published the text of the Declaration of Independence. Bill of Rights guaranteed Freedom of the Press Numbers of newspapers have declined (2000 in 1920- 1745 in 1980- less than 1500 today) Internet, and TV have caused downfall Newspapers give greater detail than TV and provide opinions Most papers are local

Radio Radio in America: Existed since 1920 when KDKA in Pittsburg, PA gave presidential election returns … then became popular By the 1930’s, people planned days around their favorite programs and national events were learned about immediately FDR was the first president to use the radio with his fireside chats Radio has survived despite TV due to its convenience There are 700 public radio stations (NPR)

Magazines Magazines in America: Several magazines published in colonial days including Ben Franklins General Magazine in 1741 Harper’s Weekly and Atlantic Monthly were political appearing in mid-1800’s 12,000 magazines in the US from trade publications Vehicles of opinion

Media Influence Only some of the public actually takes in and understands what the media has to say about public affairs. Media only reports what their news editors judge important &/or most interesting. In-depth coverage of public affairs is available (must seek it out).

Media Influences on . . . Public Agenda Electoral Politics Emphasize, Ignore, and Downplay Tell People What to Think About Huge Impact on White House Electoral Politics Declining Parties in American Politics Personality Influence Manipulation Sound Bites