Poll shows record low perceptions of media freedom in the U.S.
The Hill · September 29, 2026Original source ↗
What happened
A Gallup poll indicated that 69 percent of Americans think there is a lot of media freedom in the U.S. This figure represents the lowest level of perceived media freedom since the question was first asked nearly 20 years ago.
Why it matters
Understanding public perception of media freedom is important as it relates to democracy and informed citizenry.
How this story affects people
How does this story affect you if you are a journalist or media professional?
This decline in perceived media freedom may affect your ability to report without fear of censorship or backlash. It could lead to increased scrutiny and pressure on your work, impacting the overall quality and integrity of news reporting.
How does this story affect you if you are a consumer of news?
A record low perception of media freedom could influence your trust in news sources and the information they provide. This may lead to skepticism about the accuracy of reporting and a potential decrease in engagement with media outlets.
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