8.1 Media coverage of elections

7 min readjuly 30, 2024

Media coverage shapes how we view elections. It's not just about reporting facts—the way stories are framed and which ones get attention can sway public opinion. From horse race coverage to issue deep dives, media choices impact voter perceptions.

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Top images from around the web for Media Framing in Elections
Top images from around the web for Media Framing in Elections

has changed the game, letting candidates speak directly to voters. But it also creates and spreads misinformation fast. Understanding these dynamics is key to being an informed voter in today's media landscape.

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Top images from around the web for Media Framing in Elections
Top images from around the web for Media Framing in Elections
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Media Framing in Elections

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Impact of Framing on Public Perception

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  • influences how people interpret and react to information by selecting, emphasizing, excluding, and elaborating certain aspects of a story
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  • Frames shape public opinion by defining problems, diagnosing causes, making moral judgments, and suggesting remedies
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  • The way journalists frame electoral issues and candidates significantly impacts voters' understanding and evaluation of them (portraying a candidate as experienced vs. out of touch)
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Types of Electoral Framing

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  • focuses on polling data, campaign strategies, and who is winning or losing rather than substantive policy issues, leading to a more superficial understanding of candidates and their positions
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  • emphasizes specific policy positions, ideologies, or character traits of candidates, priming voters to prioritize certain considerations when evaluating candidates and making voting decisions (focusing on a candidate's stance on healthcare reform)
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  • focuses on specific events or instances (a candidate's gaffe at a rally), while places issues and events in a broader context (systemic problems in the healthcare system)
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  • Episodic framing can lead to more individualistic attributions of responsibility, while thematic framing encourages more systemic thinking
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Factors Influencing Framing Effects

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  • are often more pronounced among less informed or less engaged citizens who rely more heavily on media cues to form their opinions
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  • Well-informed voters with strong political knowledge and interest are less susceptible to framing effects
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  • The impact of framing also depends on the credibility and trustworthiness of the media source, as well as the consistency of frames across different outlets
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Media Bias and Electoral Narratives

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Forms of Media Bias

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  • is the real or perceived tendency of media outlets to favor one perspective, ideology, or candidate over others in their coverage
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  • occurs when media outlets or journalists openly support a particular political party or ideology, more common in opinion journalism (Fox News' conservative lean, MSNBC's liberal lean)
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  • arises from the constraints and incentives of the media industry, such as the pressure to attract audiences, the influence of advertisers, and the reliance on official sources, leading to a bias towards sensationalism, conflict, and the status quo
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Impact of Media Bias on Voters

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  • Media bias can influence voter opinions by priming them to focus on certain issues, framing candidates in particular ways, and providing differential levels of coverage to campaigns
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  • Biased coverage can affect perceptions of candidate viability, electability, and fitness for office (portraying a candidate as a strong leader vs. a weak flip-flopper)
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  • causes voters to seek out and interpret media content in ways that confirm their preexisting opinions, leading to a reinforcement of political polarization (liberals watching MSNBC, conservatives watching Fox News)
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  • Media outlets may cater to these biases to attract and retain audiences, creating echo chambers where voters are primarily exposed to information that reinforces their existing beliefs
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Mitigating Factors and Media Literacy

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  • The effects of media bias are moderated by factors such as political sophistication, , and exposure to diverse viewpoints
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  • Voters who actively seek out multiple sources of information and critically evaluate media content are less likely to be swayed by bias
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  • Media literacy education can help citizens recognize and navigate biased content, encouraging a more informed and engaged electorate
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Social Media's Influence on Elections

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Candidate Use of Social Media

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  • Social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram) have become important channels for political communication, allowing candidates to bypass traditional media gatekeepers and directly engage with voters
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  • Candidates use social media to share their messages, mobilize supporters, and respond to opponents in real-time, leading to a more personalized and interactive form of campaigning (Trump's Twitter use in 2016)
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  • However, this also raises concerns about the spread of misinformation and the manipulation of public opinion through targeted messaging and micro-targeting
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Algorithmic Filtering and Echo Chambers

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  • Social media algorithms create filter bubbles and echo chambers where users are primarily exposed to content that aligns with their existing beliefs and interests
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  • This can lead to increased political polarization and the amplification of extreme viewpoints, as users are less likely to encounter diverse perspectives or challenging information
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  • Echo chambers can reinforce confirmation bias and make it harder for voters to engage in constructive dialogue across political divides
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Viral Content and Disinformation

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  • User-generated content, such as memes, videos, and hashtags, can quickly go viral on social media, shaping the narratives and perceptions of candidates and issues
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  • This content is often more emotionally resonant and less fact-based than traditional journalism, making it more likely to be shared and believed (the spread of conspiracy theories and false claims about candidates)
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  • Social media platforms have been used by foreign actors to interfere in elections through the spread of , the amplification of divisive content, and the micro-targeting of voters with personalized messages (Russian interference in the 2016 US election)
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Impact on Political Participation and Discourse

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  • Social media can increase and voter turnout by making it easier for citizens to access information and engage with campaigns (online voter registration drives, "get out the vote" campaigns)
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  • However, it can also contribute to information overload, political cynicism, and a decline in the quality of public discourse, as users are exposed to a constant stream of partisan content and uncivil interactions
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  • The anonymity and distance of online communication can foster more extreme and polarized expression, making it harder to find common ground and engage in productive dialogue
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Media Ownership and Election Reporting

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Concentration of Media Ownership

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  • refers to the control of media outlets by individuals, corporations, or conglomerates
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  • Consolidation occurs when a small number of companies own a large proportion of media outlets, leading to decreased competition and diversity in the marketplace of ideas (Sinclair Broadcast Group's ownership of local TV stations)
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  • Concentrated media ownership can lead to a homogenization of news content, as outlets owned by the same company may share resources, perspectives, and editorial priorities, reducing the range of viewpoints and depth of coverage available to voters
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Corporate Influence on Editorial Decisions

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  • Corporate ownership of media outlets can create conflicts of interest, as the business interests of parent companies may influence editorial decisions and the framing of political issues
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  • This can lead to a bias towards policies and candidates that favor the economic interests of media owners (Rupert Murdoch's media empire and its support for conservative policies)
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  • Consolidation can also lead to cost-cutting measures, such as the reduction of local news coverage and the reliance on wire services or syndicated content, diminishing the ability of media outlets to provide in-depth, contextual reporting on local elections and issues
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Marginalization of Alternative Voices

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  • The can make it more difficult for alternative or dissenting voices to gain access to mainstream platforms, limiting the diversity of perspectives in election coverage
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  • This can contribute to the marginalization of certain communities and viewpoints, as well as the amplification of dominant narratives that benefit those in power
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  • Deregulation of media ownership rules, such as the relaxation of cross-ownership restrictions and the elimination of the Fairness Doctrine, has contributed to increased consolidation and the erosion of public interest obligations in election coverage
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Rise of Digital Media and Citizen Journalism

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  • The rise of and has somewhat counteracted the effects of consolidation by providing alternative channels for information and opinion
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  • The internet has lowered barriers to entry and allowed for a more diverse range of voices in election coverage, enabling citizens to share their perspectives and hold media outlets accountable (bloggers and independent journalists covering underreported stories)
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  • However, the fragmentation of the media landscape and the proliferation of unverified information online can also contribute to confusion and polarization among voters, making it harder to establish a shared understanding of electoral issues and candidates

Key Terms to Review (24)

Algorithmic filtering: Algorithmic filtering is the process through which algorithms analyze data to personalize and prioritize content based on user preferences, behavior, and other factors. This technique is increasingly significant in shaping how information is presented, especially during elections, as it influences the media coverage that voters see, ultimately affecting their perceptions and choices.
Citizen Journalism: Citizen journalism refers to the practice of ordinary people collecting, reporting, and analyzing news content, often using digital tools and platforms. This phenomenon empowers individuals to act as journalists, breaking news stories that mainstream media may overlook, thus reshaping the landscape of information dissemination and public discourse.
Concentration of media ownership: Concentration of media ownership refers to the trend where fewer companies or individuals control a large share of the media market, including television, radio, newspapers, and online platforms. This concentration can significantly impact the diversity of viewpoints presented in media coverage and can shape public perception, especially during critical events such as elections, where the framing of candidates and issues can be influenced by the interests of these powerful owners.
Confirmation Bias: Confirmation bias is the tendency to search for, interpret, favor, and recall information in a way that confirms one’s preexisting beliefs or hypotheses while giving disproportionately less consideration to alternative possibilities. This cognitive bias significantly shapes how individuals consume media and engage in public discourse, often reinforcing existing opinions rather than challenging them.
Corporate influence: Corporate influence refers to the power that businesses and corporations have to affect political decisions, public policies, and media narratives through financial contributions, lobbying efforts, and strategic partnerships. This influence can shape election outcomes and determine the framing of political issues, often prioritizing corporate interests over public welfare and democratic processes.
Digital Media: Digital media refers to any content that is created, stored, and accessed in a digital format, including text, audio, video, and images. This form of media is integral to modern communication, shaping how information is disseminated and consumed in society. The rise of digital media has transformed traditional media landscapes, influencing everything from political discourse to the way we engage with democratic processes.
Disinformation: Disinformation refers to false information deliberately spread with the intent to deceive or mislead others. This can have serious implications for democratic processes, governance, and the public's trust in media sources, especially in an age where information spreads rapidly through digital platforms.
Echo Chambers: Echo chambers are social environments where individuals are exposed predominantly to information and opinions that reinforce their existing beliefs, leading to a lack of diverse perspectives. This phenomenon can significantly shape political discourse, hinder democratic deliberation, and amplify polarization among groups.
Episodic framing: Episodic framing is a media framing technique that focuses on specific events or individual cases rather than broader social issues or trends. This type of framing tends to emphasize personal stories and vivid imagery, making it easier for audiences to connect emotionally with the narrative. By highlighting specific instances, episodic framing can shape public perceptions and influence how audiences interpret social issues, often leading to a more individualistic understanding rather than a systemic one.
Framing effects: Framing effects refer to the way information is presented or structured, influencing how audiences interpret and understand that information. This concept highlights that the same facts can be perceived differently depending on the context and emphasis provided in the media coverage, impacting public opinion and behavior. The way issues are framed can shape perceptions of political candidates, policies, and events, leading to different reactions from the public.
Horse race framing: Horse race framing is a media coverage approach that focuses on the competitive aspects of elections, portraying candidates as if they are in a race rather than discussing their policies or qualifications. This type of framing often emphasizes polls, standings, and the perceived momentum of candidates, leading to a narrative that prioritizes who is winning or losing rather than the substance of their platforms. This framing can impact public perception and voter engagement by creating a sense of urgency and excitement around the electoral process.
Issue framing: Issue framing refers to the way information and issues are presented in the media, influencing how audiences perceive and understand them. The media can shape public opinion by highlighting specific aspects of an issue while downplaying others, thereby affecting the narrative and interpretation of events. This process is crucial in political discourse, particularly during elections, as it can sway voters' perceptions and decisions.
Marginalization of alternative voices: The marginalization of alternative voices refers to the process through which non-mainstream opinions, perspectives, and candidates are pushed to the sidelines in media narratives, particularly during elections. This phenomenon often results in a limited public discourse, where only dominant viewpoints gain visibility, while diverse or unconventional ideas struggle for attention and representation.
Media Bias: Media bias refers to the perceived or actual partiality in the reporting of news and information, which can influence how events are presented and interpreted by audiences. This bias can manifest through the selection of stories, language used, or the framing of issues, impacting public perception and discourse around critical topics.
Media Framing: Media framing refers to the way information and events are presented by the media, influencing how audiences interpret and understand them. This concept highlights that the specific angle or perspective from which a story is told can significantly shape public perception, opinions, and discourse.
Media Literacy: Media literacy is the ability to access, analyze, evaluate, and create media in various forms, empowering individuals to understand the role of media in society and make informed decisions as consumers and producers. This skill set is essential for navigating today's complex media landscape and helps individuals critically engage with content, recognize bias, and discern credible information.
Media ownership: Media ownership refers to the control and management of various media outlets, including television, radio, newspapers, and online platforms, by individuals or corporations. This concept is crucial because it influences how information is disseminated, the diversity of viewpoints presented, and ultimately shapes democratic discourse and public engagement.
Partisan bias: Partisan bias refers to the tendency of media outlets to favor one political party or ideology over others in their reporting and coverage. This bias can manifest through the selection of stories, the framing of issues, and the portrayal of political figures, ultimately influencing public perception and voting behavior during elections.
Political Participation: Political participation refers to the various ways in which individuals engage in the political process, including voting, activism, and other forms of civic engagement. This term is crucial as it highlights how citizens influence political decisions and policies, ultimately shaping the democratic landscape. Understanding political participation allows for a better grasp of how media can affect public discourse, the role of media in elections, and the impact of digital divides on democratic engagement.
Public perception: Public perception refers to the collective opinion or attitude that the general public holds towards a person, organization, event, or issue. It is shaped by various factors including media coverage, public discourse, and social influences. Understanding public perception is crucial as it can significantly affect political outcomes, policy decisions, and the reputation of candidates during elections.
Social media: Social media refers to digital platforms and tools that enable users to create, share, and exchange content in virtual communities and networks. It plays a pivotal role in shaping communication, engagement, and participation within democratic societies by facilitating the flow of information and enabling citizen interaction.
Structural bias: Structural bias refers to the inherent tendencies in media systems and practices that shape how information is presented and prioritized, leading to an imbalance in coverage. This bias often stems from factors such as institutional practices, economic pressures, and cultural norms that influence which stories receive attention and how they are framed. Understanding structural bias is essential for analyzing media coverage of important events like elections, as it can affect public perception and voter behavior.
Thematic framing: Thematic framing is a communication strategy that emphasizes the broader context of an issue by highlighting underlying themes and patterns rather than focusing on specific events or incidents. This approach shapes how audiences understand and interpret news by connecting individual stories to larger societal problems, influencing public discourse and perceptions about various topics.
Viral content: Viral content refers to digital material that quickly gains popularity and spreads rapidly across the internet, often through social media and user-sharing. This type of content is characterized by its ability to resonate with audiences emotionally or humorously, leading to widespread sharing and engagement.
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