Growing up in the 1980s, I experienced a time when CBS, NBC, and ABC—the Big 3 TV networks—alongside major news outlets like The Washington Post and The New York Times, held sway over the news landscape. This era offered fewer stories to track, yet everyone stayed informed about the major events. This streamlined approach ensured that key stories reached a wide audience effectively and factually.
In today’s world, the news landscape is more fragmented than ever, leading to a growing trend of Americans intentionally distancing themselves from it. A Pew research study from 2020 revealed that a significant 66% of Americans were exhausted by political stress. Even more compelling is the fact that those not actively following the news reported an even higher level of news fatigue, at 73%.
Fast forward to 2023, and an overwhelming 8 out of 10 Americans used negative terms such as “divisive,” “corrupt,” “messy,” and “polarized” to describe U.S. politics. These statistics clearly illustrate the urgent need for change in how we engage with political discourse and highlight the importance of seeking solutions to alleviate this widespread discontent.
Below are several key factors contributing to the widespread exhaustion and burnout Americans feel toward U.S. politics. By understanding these elements, we can better address the underlying issues and work towards a more engaging and sustainable political environment.
Declining Interest and News Fatigue
Interest in news has been steadily declining over the past decade. According to the Reuters Institute Digital News Report, the percentage of people expressing strong interest in news dropped from 63% in 2017 to just 46% in 2024. This decline is even more pronounced in some countries, like the UK, where interest in news has nearly halved since 2015. Many people are experiencing news fatigue and actively avoiding news content:
-Approximately 39% of respondents now say they sometimes or often avoid the news, up from 29% in 2017
-In the UK, news avoidance nearly doubled from 24% in 2017 to 46% in 2024
-Two in five people in the UK feel “worn out” by the news
Negative Emotional Impact
Constant exposure to news, especially negative stories, can have detrimental effects on mental health:
-News consumption can induce anxiety, anger, and fear
-It can lead to a fear-driven personality and a more cautious approach to life
-Many people find the news depressing, relentless, and boring
Shift to Digital and Social Media
Traditional, mainstream news sources are losing audience to digital platforms:
-86% of Americans now turn to digital devices for news
-Social media platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram are increasingly used for news consumption
-TikTok has surpassed Twitter as a news source, especially among younger demographics
Declining Trust in Media
There’s a growing distrust in mainstream media:
-Trust in news remains low at around 40%, which is 4% lower than during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic
-Many people perceive news as manipulative or biased
-Some view the news as repetitive and failing to represent truly important issues
Time Constraints and Perceived Value
People are realizing that constant news consumption may not be the best use of their time:
-Americans spend an average of 70 minutes per day checking the news
-Many are choosing to invest this time in personal development, learning new skills, or pursuing hobbies instead
Changing News Landscape
The way news is delivered and consumed is evolving:
-Video content, especially short-form videos (a la Tik Tok), is becoming increasingly popular for news consumption
-Traditional newsrooms are struggling to adapt to these changes
-The rise of AI in journalism is met with suspicion by many consumers
A combination of fatigue, negative emotional impact, shifting media landscapes, and changing priorities is leading people to consume less traditional news content. This trend poses challenges for the news industry but also reflects broader changes in how people engage with information in the digital age.
Following the news is important for several reasons:
Staying Informed and Engaged
Keeping up with current events allows you to:
-Understand what’s happening in your community and the world at large
-Make informed decisions that affect your daily life
-Participate actively in civic engagement and the democratic process
-Develop critical thinking and analytical skills
Personal and Professional Benefits
Following the news can:
-Enhance your ability to have meaningful conversations with others
-Improve workplace performance by staying informed about industry trends
-Help you identify opportunities and threats in your field
-Build expertise and earn respect in your profession
Community Connection
News consumption fosters:
-A sense of belonging and shared identity within your community
-Awareness of local issues, events, and opportunities for involvement
-Support for local businesses and initiatives
Safety and Preparedness
Staying updated on news helps you:
-Stay informed about potential dangers or safety concerns
-Be aware of emergency situations or natural disasters
-Protect yourself from scams and harmful situations
Broader Perspective
Following the news:
-Exposes you to diverse viewpoints and cultures
-Develops empathy and global awareness
-Encourages thinking beyond your immediate surroundings
While it’s important to stay informed, it’s also crucial to be mindful of how news consumption affects your well-being. Balancing news intake with other activities and focusing on reliable sources can help you reap the benefits of staying informed without becoming overwhelmed