Press Article: Social Media Influencers Rise as Primary News Source for Young Americans
New York (CNN) — A recent study by the Pew Research Center reveals a significant shift in how young American adults consume news, with nearly 40% of those aged 18 to 29 getting their information from social media influencers. This marks a stark increase from just one-fifth of the overall adult population who reported relying on these “news influencers.” Among young adults utilizing this source, a substantial 65% state that it has shaped their understanding of current events and civic matters.
The Pew study, conducted prior to the presidential election, analyzed popular influencers with over 100,000 followers and surveyed more than 10,000 Americans. Influencers like Joe Rogan and Alex Cooper played influential roles in voter outreach, with varying political allegiances. Interestingly, the research indicated a conservative tilt among news influencers—27% identified as Republican or pro-Trump, versus 21% identifying as liberal, with Facebook showing a stark contrast of three times more conservative influencers.
Most influencers lack traditional news industry ties, with 77% reporting no affiliation with mainstream media organizations. This absence of journalism training leads to a blend of personal opinions and facts in their reporting, contrasting sharply with the structured separation found in established news outlets. As political content surged in the election’s final stretch, both major candidates engaged with friendly influencers. However, this could create a biased perception among young voters, as influencers typically present unchallenged views.
The study also highlights a gender disparity, revealing that 63% of influencers are male. While TikTok showed a more balanced representation and liberal sentiments, platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram remain predominantly male. Following the election, many users have gravitated away from X, formerly Twitter, to platforms like Bluesky, following controversial stances taken by its new owner, Elon Musk.
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