Americans' Trust in Media Hits Record Low

Americans' trust in mass media has hit a record low, with only 31% expressing a 'great deal' or 'fair amount' of confidence in the media, according to a recent Gallup poll conducted from September 3-15, 2024. The poll highlights a persistent trend of declining trust since 2016, with trust levels now lower than the previous low of 32% in 2016 and 2023. The survey revealed that 36% of Americans have no trust at all in the media, while 33% have 'not very much' confidence. Trust in media varies significantly across political affiliations, with only 12% of Republicans, 27% of Independents, and 54% of Democrats expressing trust. The decline in media trust is more pronounced among younger populations, particularly those who consume news online. Trust in the media is now lower than trust in other civic institutions, such as Congress and the Supreme Court.