Local news is journalism that reports on events, issues, and stories within a specific geographic area and often involves community members in the storytelling process. It plays a critical role in informing residents about their communities, fostering a sense of community identity, and addressing local concerns. It also encourages civic engagement and participation by ensuring that residents are informed about government decisions that directly affect their neighborhoods.
In the United States, local news is provided by local television stations through evening broadcasts and special reports focused on community concerns. These programs typically air alongside national network newscasts, although local newscasts may have distinct branding and studio designs from their parent networks. Local news also is available online through websites that focus on regional coverage.
In addition, local news is a crucial part of public radio and newspapers, where dedicated reporters can cover a wide range of issues that affect their communities. The rise of social media has changed how local news is disseminated, and in some cases has shifted the focus of traditional outlets.
While many local news organizations face financial challenges, some are finding ways to remain viable, including collaborations and partnerships. For example, ProPublica’s Local Reporting Network uses grant money to support smaller newsrooms in telling more complicated, in-depth stories that would be difficult for them to produce on their own. These efforts to sustain and grow local news can help address the growing distrust in journalism that makes people more susceptible to false information and misinformation.