As the election dust settles, we find ourselves asking, “What’s next?” At America’s Newspapers, our focus remains clear. We continue to advocate for the indispensable role local newspapers play in strengthening communities and democracy.
Since our inception in 2019, we've tirelessly communicated this message to our nation’s leaders, emphasizing how essential our industry is, not just to inform but to build civic engagement and keep democracy alive. We’ve made connections, gained allies and grown support — even if our advocacy efforts haven’t yet materialized as legislation. More than 50 bipartisan representatives have signed on to the Community News and Small Business Support Act, signaling the interest in Congress to support meaningful change for our industry.
So, what’s next? Our work in Washington will continue. We’re now introducing America’s Newspapers to newly elected representatives and their teams, and reintroducing ourselves to the representatives we’ve already connected with, all the while underscoring the value and importance of local newspapers.
We’re asking each of you to do the same. Now is the perfect time to reach out to the new representatives in your area — or, if the incumbent has won re-election, to remind them of the mission and service your local newspaper provides. Your outreach reinforces that their support is vital not only to the newspaper industry, but also to the communities they represent. If you need assistance with making connections or talking points, reach out to us. We are here to help.
Our recent Trust in Media study highlights the critical role that local newspapers play in an era of heightened skepticism toward national media and the disruptive influence of social media. While this election cycle brought a wave of partisan discourse and disinformation from national outlets and social platforms, local newspapers have remained the most trusted news source for Americans. According to the study, 51% of Americans trust their local newspaper, more than any other media source. Additionally, a compelling 85% believe local newspapers play an essential role in sustaining democracy, and 74% say their community would suffer without one.
For further insights, we encourage you to visit our website to see how the public views our industry — and why it’s so crucial to the future of our democracy. We still have work to do to improve the trust our audiences have in us, and we hope to explore ways we can accomplish this over the next year.
To each of you, thank you for your continued membership and your dedication to the democratic process. Your work in keeping local communities informed on elections and local events is vital to the health of our democracy. A remarkable 80% of Americans consider their local newspaper an essential community asset, affirming the leadership role we play in today’s society. Together, let’s keep advocating, educating and reminding our leaders of the power of local journalism.
Dean Ridings can be reached at dridings@newspapers.org.
