3 chapters across the catalog
Donald Trump utilized the birther movement to gain significant media airtime across major networks like CBS, ABC, and NBC. Analysts argue that Trump is a creation of the American political news media, which prioritized ratings over the substance of his claims. Trump reportedly avoided a 2012 run against Barack Obama because he knew he could not win, instead using the period to build his brand for the 2016 election.
The news industry operates on the "if it bleeds, it leads" principle, treating high-profile tragedies like the Guyger trial as a "ratings bonanza" similar to the Super Bowl. By throwing "raw meat" to both sides of a racial or political divide, media outlets ensure viewers remain glued to their screens. This manufactured investment is compared to political polling tactics used to keep the public in a state of constant anxiety and engagement.
Television news networks are characterized as "beef networks" that manufacture conflict between political candidates to drive ratings and ad revenue. The hosts compare political debates, such as those between Kamala Harris and Joe Biden, to sports matches where "parity" is required to keep the audience engaged. They argue that a "blowout" or lopsided contest is bad for the media business.
