MSNBC Ratings Hit Two-Decade Low After Election

Following Donald Trump's victory over Kamala Harris in the 2024 election, cable news viewership has drastically shifted, with Fox News Channel (FNC) emerging as the dominant force, capturing 62% of total day viewers and experiencing significant increases in audience numbers. In stark contrast, both MSNBC and CNN have recorded historic lows in viewership, particularly among the crucial 25-54 demographic. MSNBC achieved its lowest-rated non-holiday weekday in this demographic in 20 years, averaging only 38,000 viewers, while CNN reported its lowest ratings in nearly three decades with an average of 41,000 viewers. The decline is attributed to viewers' disengagement following the election, especially among supporters of the losing candidate, and compounded by controversies surrounding MSNBC hosts. This situation raises concerns about the future viability of these networks, especially as MSNBC faces potential restructuring under Comcast's planned spinoff of NBCUniversal assets. The ongoing media landscape reflects a broader crisis in trust and engagement among audiences, as evidenced by Gallup's findings on the profession's standing.