Media Endorsements: A Fading Trend?

The question of how Democrats view left-wing media outlets like USA Today, The Washington Post, The LA Times, and The Tampa Bay Times not endorsing Kamala Harris has sparked much debate. Many believe that such endorsements carry significant weight, but the reality is far different. The vast majority of voters make up their minds well before these endorsements are released, and their opinions do not shift dramatically based on them.

The Democratic Perspective

Democrats do not wait for their so-called "leftist overlords" to dictate their thoughts. They are well aware that media endorsements, while they might influence a small fraction of unconventional voters, do not change the minds of the majority. It is a clear indication that these outlets prioritize their own political beliefs over objective journalism.

The Media’s Role and Business Decline

Several major newspapers, including two out of the four mentioned outlets, had Kamala Harris endorsements ready to go. The decision to withhold these endorsements was ultimately made by their billionaire owners, leading to resignations from several editors who could not support such a cynical move. This narrative of "obeying in advance" shows how eager the media is to curry favor with the current administration, rather than engaging in genuine journalism.

The argument that they want to get out of the business of presidential endorsements is weak. Making this decision a week or two before the election only exacerbates the perception that these outlets are more concerned with political piety than journalistic integrity.

The Shift to New Media

In an age where traditional media is struggling, new media has risen to prominence. New platforms and personalities are carving out significant audiences, challenging the dominance of legacy media. Take, for example, Joe Rogan's recent interview with Donald Trump, which added 400,000 subscribers in one day. This is equivalent to the loss that The Washington Post experienced due to the protest embargo, and it represents 20% of The Washington Post's total subscription base. Rogan's interview generated over 26 million views in a three-hour broadcast and, including 5–7 minute excerpts, quickly surpassed 100 million views. In contrast, traditional broadcast news only attracts about 18 million viewers per evening, with less than 3 million under the age of 45.

The legacy media, from The Washington Post to CNN and MSNBC, is struggling to maintain relevance. Extreme partisanship has been a significant factor in their declining business prospects. The Washington Post, for instance, lost $77 million last year and is projected to lose another $50 million this year, largely due to the absence of a visionary leader. Jeff Bezos' investment has been crucial, but as his bottomless pockets dry up, these outlets face a bleak future.

The Future of Journalism

The old newspaper brands are dinosaurs, already on the Titanic. The race between news organizations is akin to a dance contest, with Fox News leading the pack in ratings, but this achievement is hollow in the face of the overall decline of traditional media. Even Fox News' dominance in ratings is tenuous, as cable news as a whole continues to decline in mainstream viewership.

The rise of new media platforms like Joe Rogan is not just a trend but a seismic shift in how news and information are consumed. New media is attracting young and tech-savvy audiences, challenging the traditional gatekeepers of information. It is clear that the era of legacy media is waning, and those who cannot adapt will be left behind.

Conclusion

The decisions made by major media outlets, such as withholding endorsements, are indicative of a broader trend towards prioritizing political agendas over journalistic integrity. As legacy media continues to decline, new media platforms are on the rise, offering real-time, relevant, and diverse content. While traditional media organizations like The Washington Post face uncertain futures, new platforms like Joe Rogan are capturing the attention of younger generations. The future of journalism lies in adaptability, innovation, and a commitment to truth, rather than political expediency.