How Social Media Is Changing the Way Americans Get Local Political News
Americans are increasingly using social media to learn about local government and politics. According to a July 2024 Pew Research Center study, 54% of U.S. adults sometimes obtain local political news via social media. These platforms are more likely to be used by younger adults to obtain political information. Local news sources, friends, family, and neighbours are additional sources of political news for Americans. When taken as a whole, these sources demonstrate how digital platforms are changing how individuals learn about local political concerns.
Social Media Is Becoming a Local News Source
Social media has become an important source of local political news. According to a Pew Research Center study, 70% of Americans often or sometimes receive local public information via neighbours, acquaintances, or family. About 66% get this information from local news outlets, while 54% get it from social media. These results do not imply that online news networks have replaced traditional local news. Instead, social media has become another way for Americans to learn about their communities. The difference between younger and older adults is especially noticeable. About 71% of adults aged between 18 and 29 reported using social networks frequently or occasionally in order to receive community news. By contrast, 36% of persons 65 years of age and older have done so.
News Influencers Reach Younger Audiences
Social media has also increased the role of news influencers. News influencers are people with large online followings who regularly discuss news, politics, or social issues. According to a Pew Research Center study in 2024, 21% of U.S. adults regularly get news from social media news influencers. That figure added up to 37% among adults aged 18 to 29. The study also found that 65% of people who regularly get news from influencers say this information helps them better understand current events and civic issues. As a result, some individuals may find it easier to access public information. However, viewers should still consider who created the content and whether the information is supported by reliable evidence.
More News Can Also Feel Overwhelming
Another issue is the volume of news that is accessible online. According to a 2026 Pew Research Center study, 52% of U.S. adult respondents claim that the volume of news available today wears them out. According to the report, 60% of respondents have cut back on their overall news intake. News can also appear when people are not actively looking for it. A person scrolling through social media or watching a video may suddenly encounter a political post. These days, news can show up even when people aren’t actively seeking it. “There are a lot more different ways that you can consume news now than you used to be able to,” said a woman in her 60s who participated in a 2025 Pew Research Center focus group.
Staying Informed
Particularly among younger adults, social media has altered how Americans find local political news. It can introduce people to issues impacting their communities and offer rapid access to information. However, before determining what to believe, viewers should consider more than just one message or account. People can make better decisions by looking for supporting evidence, comparing information from reputable news organizations, and verifying the source. Staying informed means finding information and checking whether it can be trusted.