In an alarming revelation, researchers at the Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications at Northwestern University have highlighted a stark decline in local journalism across the United States. Their findings indicate that more than half of U.S. counties are currently suffering from a lack of access to reliable local news, categorizing over 200 counties as “news deserts.”
The Accelerating Loss of Local Newspapers
The Medill team’s investigation into the state of local news in 2023 discovered that local newspapers are disappearing at a rate of approximately 2.5 per week, leading to more than 130 confirmed newspaper closures or mergers this past year alone. This trend marks an increase from the previous year and poses a significant threat to the fabric of local communities.
Predictive Modeling Uncovers Future Risks
For the first time, Medill researchers employed predictive modeling to estimate the future of local news landscapes. This analysis revealed that an additional 228 counties are at a high risk of becoming news deserts within the next five years. The “Watch List” generated from this study focuses on counties with only one remaining news source, providing a crucial early warning system for potential loss of coverage.
Learn more about Medill’s groundbreaking “State of Local News Project,” which continues to shed light on the shifting dynamics of local journalism in America.
Digital Divides and “Bright Spots” in Local News
While the study counts approximately 550 digital-only local news outlets and 225 public broadcasting stations contributing to local journalism, most of these new ventures are based in metropolitan areas, further exacerbating the disparity between well-served and underserved communities. However, the project also identified “Bright Spots” — successful local news startups and legacy organizations pioneering new business models, offering a glimmer of hope for the revitalization of local journalism.
The Importance of Local News for Democracy
“Poorer and underserved communities are the most affected by the loss of local news outlets, presenting a crisis for our democracy,” stated Medill visiting professor Penny Abernathy, a co-author of the report. Identifying at-risk areas while highlighting successful models in other communities is crucial for addressing this growing issue.
The Way Forward: Diagnostics and Optimism
The report emphasizes the need for a forward-looking approach, introducing diagnostic tools such as the “Watch List” counties and “Local News Ecosystem Barometer” maps. These resources aim to guide policymakers, philanthropists, and investors towards targeted actions to prevent the formation of new news deserts.
Moreover, with the support of partners like Microsoft, Medill has launched a “Bright Spots” map showcasing local news growth across the U.S. This initiative underscores a story of hope and resilience in building sustainable local news ecosystems essential for thriving democracies. Learn more about Microsoft’s commitment to supporting democracy and local journalism.
As America faces a moment of significant loss in local journalism, there lies an equally significant opportunity for innovation and rejuvenation in the industry. The efforts of Medill and its partners are pivotal in steering the narrative towards a hopeful future for local news.
