On Media Coverage

In recent months, major conservative-aligned figures and corporations have gained control over the media landscape. The power behind everything we hear, see, and read is tilting right. Controversial remarks made by Jimmy Kimmel on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” have caused several corporations like Nexstar Media Group to boycott the late-night talk show, even after its return to ABC. Simultaneously, proposed changes to TikTok’s ownership could place its algorithm under Rupert and Lachlan Murdoch, along with other conservative investors. Mergers like the $8.4 billion Paramount-Skydance deal raise suspicion due to pledges to stop diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) practices. These events have posed an important question: how much of what we call “news” is influenced by politics rather than truth?

The shift of media into conservative hands is no coincidence. Media influence begins with funding, and lately, conservative billionaires have expanded their reach into the media world. Skydance Media signed a deal to take over Paramount, backed by Republican donors, and they promised to scrap DEI programs and emphasize conservative reporting. The control of one of the most influential algorithms, TikTok, could be placed in the hands of longtime allies of Republican politics. On a local scale, media has been bought out by conservatives. The Baltimore Sun, for example, was bought out by David Smith, a political conservative. Many critics were alarmed by this move, as the Sun has been appreciated by many for its non-partisan and trustworthy content. These developments go beyond what is aired or posted online. They shape entertainment, news, and which stories get amplified or quietly disappear. 

When ownership leans conservative, audiences are at risk of being funneled into constant coverage through a partisan lens. Algorithm-driven platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and X tend to amplify ideological content, and when the algorithms are dominated by conservative-aligned interests, deeper polarization occurs. This polarization creates a climate in which the public struggles to agree on the basic facts. Trust in journalism is low, but it may erode further if people believe that news outlets serve political agendas rather than truth. Gradually, reshaping of media power has potential to weaken democratic debate by, intentionally in some cases like the Skydance deal, narrowing the diversity of voices in media. 

While concerns about growing Republican presence in media are valid, it is important to recognize how truly complex the media world is. Ownership changes do not directly result in editorial control. Many outlets continue to maintain professional, unbiased standards despite shifts in leadership. The Murdoch family, for example, has influenced conservative narratives through Fox News, yet The Wall Street Journal is still respected for its quality and neutral reporting. The Skydance-Paramount merger has also raised alarms, but CBS news has in the past resisted political interference, and there is a chance it may retain editorial independence. Conservative outlets gaining prominence is not exclusive to Republicans, and liberal-leaning organizations such as MSNBC are supported by progressive donors, also exerting influence on public media. These dynamics in the media landscape suggest that although Republican-aligned media is increasing in frequency and dominance, the overall media system is currently diverse and grant audiences a wide range of perspectives, if they are actively sought out. 

Although buyers of media play a big role in journalism, its future does not solely lie in the hands of billionaires and the politicians. It depends on us, the consumers. Most teenagers get most of their information through social media like TikTok and Instagram, and it is essential that we understand who controls media sources. The best way to combat media bias is by questioning ownership, comparing sources, and resisting the urge to get trapped in the echo chamber that algorithms can become. It is imperative that we seek out diverse perspectives to ensure a bigger, better picture of the world. Media literacy can begin with small steps like fact-checking posts, supporting credible sources, or starting individual media projects that add up to make an impact. In a time of journalism where media becomes increasingly polarized, this generation can demand the truth, shaping the future of the media.

Sources

https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/sep/24/tiktok-trump-murdoch-ellison

https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/jul/24/paramount-skydance-merger-fcc

https://www.ft.com/content/f2162505-6b0c-4193-ab94-4a531642590f?utm_source=chatgpt.com 

https://freebeacon.com/media/david-smith-baltimore-sun/?utm_source=chatgpt.com