Local news is the reporting that covers the events, issues and activities that directly impact a specific community or geographic area. It is vital to a healthy democracy because it helps people understand what’s at stake in local elections and public services, encourages voter turnout, reduces political polarization and holds government accountable.
The vast majority of Americans say they get their local news from newspapers or local television. But with declining advertising revenue, many small daily papers have closed and broadcasters are reducing their local news coverage. Despite these challenges, local newsrooms are still a critical source of information for many Americans. The American Journalism Project supports the development of a more financially sustainable and mission-driven local media. We fund existing nonprofit newsrooms through grantmaking and help them develop their revenue-generating capacity while building a movement of support for mission-based local newsrooms.
People who say they pay attention to local news are more likely to follow news about the weather, traffic and sports (although not necessarily more satisfied with the quality of this content than others). These topics tend to be followed most closely by those with high levels of community connection. Adults 65 and older are especially likely to follow these stories, reflecting their greater attachment to their communities.
When the Eudora, Kansas newspaper shut down in 2019, leaving the town without a local paper, students stepped in. Now, the Williamstown Record features a dedicated Town News section staffed by a team of undergraduate journalism students. Their work has shed light on problems in the local police department, including racial disparities and mistreatment of minority residents. This work has led to changes in police practices and public dialogue.
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