President-elect Donald Trump’s victory on November 5 marked a stunning political comeback, defying media narratives and widespread criticism.
Voters not only elected Trump but also secured Republican control of both the House and Senate, signaling a significant rejection of Democratic policies and liberal media messaging.
One of the biggest losers in this election cycle was the liberal media.
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Despite aggressive campaigns against Trump and attempts to frame him as unfit for office, Americans delivered a resounding message: they no longer trust the media’s narratives.
Many voters dismissed claims pushed by outlets like CNN and MSNBC, including comparisons of Trump to authoritarian figures and criticisms of his leadership capabilities.
Instead, they opted for a candidate they believed could address issues that they feel worsened under Vice President Kamala Harris and Democratic policies.
The aftermath of this rejection has not been kind to the media.
Ratings for major networks like CNN and MSNBC continue to decline, leading to cuts in salaries and reduced programming.
Lesley Stahl of “60 Minutes” recently voiced concerns about the potential demise of legacy media, oddly suggesting Trump as a contributing factor.
Lesley Stahl worried sick that the ‘legacy media is dead’:
Lesley Stahl: “I’m extremely worried about the press. I despair. I worry greatly. We’re at the point where if the POTUS is going to say ‘Legacy media is dead’. I’m very dark about it.”Never been more optimistic. pic.twitter.com/8a2y3NMJA5
— Eric Abbenante (@EricAbbenante) December 11, 2024
Media distrust among Americans is not a new phenomenon.
Critics cite a series of high-profile instances where major outlets appeared to favor narratives over facts.
These include the now-debunked Russia collusion allegations, the handling of the Hunter Biden laptop story, and the lack of scrutiny over Joe Biden’s cognitive abilities.
John Harwood, a former CNN reporter, recently sparked controversy with his defense of the media.
Citing a Gallup survey, Harwood tweeted, “Americans have not lost trust in media. Republicans have,” claiming that the media reports “reality” while suggesting Republicans are disconnected from it.
because the media reports reality and most Republicans have disconnected themselves from reality https://t.co/8JsHUxe4s5
— John Harwood (@JohnJHarwood) December 24, 2024
Harwood’s assertion drew sharp criticism, highlighting perceived biases in both the media and the survey itself.
The Gallup poll he referenced focused solely on Republican and Democratic perspectives, excluding insights from independents or unaffiliated voters.
Critics pointed out that these omissions undermine the survey’s credibility and fail to capture the broader spectrum of American opinion.
Yup. pic.twitter.com/VGtOFDucjL
— StormBorne (@Wrong_way_down) December 24, 2024
“Republicans ARE Americans,” one observer noted, pointing out the divisive language in Harwood’s argument.
Critics accused Harwood of exemplifying the media’s dismissive attitude toward conservative voices, further eroding trust.
Additionally, some argued that Democrats’ trust in the media may stem more from ideological alignment than from the media’s objectivity.
This perception fuels the growing divide between conservative voters and traditional media outlets.
Harwood’s remarks did not go unnoticed on social media, where his tweet faced significant backlash.
Hi John. You still haven’t responded or commented on this one. You think you can just post through it. https://t.co/QYJ3tUb6Qs pic.twitter.com/1d4tgwny2E
— Stephen L. Miller (@redsteeze) December 24, 2024
Users on X (formerly Twitter) criticized his stance, with many accusing him of ignoring valid concerns about media bias and selective reporting.
The sharp response reflects a broader frustration among voters who feel that mainstream media outlets prioritize partisan narratives over balanced journalism.
As Trump prepares to return to the White House in January, his victory underscores a shift in public sentiment against what many perceive as media manipulation.
For legacy media outlets, the challenge of regaining trust will likely require significant changes in how they approach reporting and engage with audiences across the political spectrum.
The election results and the media’s response to them highlight the ongoing struggle for credibility in an era where information is more accessible—and more contested—than ever before.
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