Question: How has the media changed?

Through the 1990s, the national network newscasts experienced remarkably high television ratings. Today, there are so many outlets that the national newscast, though still powerful, has lost some of its power. Although older audiences still watch the national newscast, younger ones are getting more of their news from the internet or off of social media.

As candidate and as President, Barack Obama used social media and the internet to cater to younger audiences. The media can be of great opportunity to the President, as it can be a means of conveying and supporting the White House’s agenda. As leader of the country, the President commands the nation’s audience with more flair than does Congress.

The President often assembles the press to highlight achievements and future objectives. Though, sometimes the press becomes adversarial, or looks to use its power to expose or bring down a politician. 

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