1. Mass Media and the Political Agenda
AP Government
Mass Media and the Political Agenda

2. Government & Media http://www.drudgereport.com/

3. Primary Source of Info
Most Americans get their information media sources (TV, Radio, Online, Print Media)
Media platforms have replaced political parties as the primary source of information for virtually all Americans

4. Watchdog Function
Journalists and other media members consider it their responsibility to monitor the personal conduct of government officials
Constant media coverage has increased pressure on public officials
Bill Clinton scandals
Donald Trump’s past behavior

5. Agenda-Setting Function
Media decides which issues will receive coverage
Influences public opinion and requires candidates and officeholders to address these issues

6. Changes in Media
Consumer-driven media outlets and emerging technologies that reinforce existing biases and beliefs (Fox News, CNN)
24 hour news and online forums have replaced traditional news sources such as ABC, NBC and CBS
Horse Race journalism -journalism of elections that resembles coverage of horse races because of the focus on polling data and public perception instead of candidate policy and almost exclusive reporting on candidate differences rather than similarities.