Networks Split On Approach To Covering 4th Qtr GDP, Ranging From Regime Media To Brutal Reality
The network evening newscasts provided different perspectives on the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth for the 4th quarter of 2023, which stood at a solid 3.3%. Coverage varied from regime cheerleading to a more realistic assessment of the situation.
ABC World News Tonight chose to focus on the positive aspects of the GDP growth. Anchor David Muir expressed optimism while citing the data and offering a quote from President Biden, highlighting America’s strong growth and low inflation rate compared to other major economies. The report concluded with an image of a smiling President Biden and a mention of new record highs in the stock market. However, ABC failed to mention consumer skepticism, polling indicating public dissatisfaction with Biden’s economic policies, rising inflation, or any other potential challenges. The network swiftly shifted to reporting on a manhunt for an escaped murderer in Philadelphia.
NBC presented a more balanced view through reporter Christine Romans’ segment. Romans reported from a glass factory in Bensalem, PA, discussing both positive and negative factors influencing public perception of the economy. While acknowledging the GDP growth, Romans also mentioned Biden’s poor polling numbers in terms of handling the economy. She attributed public dissatisfaction to ongoing high inflation and the least affordable housing market in generations. However, Romans wrapped up the report with an optimistic viewpoint, suggesting that the Federal Reserve would likely reduce interest rates in the near future.
In contrast, CBS took a starkly different approach. Reporter Nikki Battiste’s report shed light on the harsh reality faced by many Americans. Clips were shown of struggling individuals across the country, highlighting the high cost of groceries, the use of credit cards to cover bills, and the burden of exorbitant rent, amounting to 60% of income. Although positive economic indicators such as GDP growth and stock market performance were mentioned, Battiste emphasized that these developments were overshadowed by the overall negative news. The report remained notably balanced, refraining from focusing on personal opinions or feelings.
While CBS presented an unbiased perspective on the 4th quarter GDP growth, ABC and NBC displayed varying degrees of regime cheerleading despite acknowledging certain challenges in their reports. ABC chose to emphasize only the positive aspects, omitting any mention of adverse conditions, whereas NBC attempted a more balanced approach by mentioning public discontent alongside the optimistic outlook.
It is essential for news consumers to seek out a variety of sources to gain a complete understanding of the economic landscape. The split in coverage by these networks highlights the importance of critically evaluating the information presented and considering multiple perspectives.
