OPINION: How is election coverage affecting voters?
Photo credit: Billy Hathorn/Public domain/Wikimedia Commons
The 2024 election will be remembered as one of the most historic elections in our country’s history, regardless of the result. The results of this election are likely to be deeply contested from both sides, but now, viewers will have to rely on the media to guide them through this election.
Media sites such as CNN, NBC, and Fox News are posting live updates as polls close and states announce winners. Additionally, X created a live update section in which any and all election related content is posted. These posts contain information about which candidate is leading in the presidential, senate, and house races respectively.
Leading up to the election, less than 40% of U.S. citizens believed that finding reliable information about the election was easy to find. Today, all major news stations are broadcasting live updates of the election to assure everyone is informed.
I have found AP to be the most informative and organized as they post updates as soon as anything significant happens. Additionally, CNN has included expert analysis on different topics including the best possibilities for each candidate and voting patterns.
Although the constant updates have helped me stay informed, there have also been other unintended consequences. While intensely monitoring the election, I found that many news sites enhanced my already growing anxiety. Leading up to the election, I felt unable to think or talk about the election, but still vaguely hopeful. As I watch CNN, listening to the ominous music in the background and seeing the countdowns to the next election results, I can feel my heart racing faster.
Although sites such as CNN and NBC posting information as it comes in can be framed as though they are just trying to inform audiences, the argument could be made that news stations know that this sense of anxiety will force people to continue watching.
As results continue to roll in, I feel obligated to stay updated and continue watching. However, I also feel obligated to note that some news stations are treating this election like a game, but for some, this election will determine the future of their reality.