Trust in News: Research Documentation

A comprehensive analysis of declining trust in news media, supported by recent research from leading institutions including Gallup, Edelman, Reuters Institute, and Pew Research Center.

Executive Summary

Trust in news media has reached unprecedented lows across multiple dimensions: political affiliation, age groups, and geographic regions. Recent data from 2024-2025 shows a continued decline from already historic lows.

Major Research Reports

Gallup (October 2025)

Trust in media hit a new low of 28% in the U.S. This represents the lowest level since Gallup began measuring in the 1970s, when 68-72% of Americans expressed confidence.

Edelman Trust Barometer (2024)

Media remains the least trusted institution globally at 50% and is distrusted in 15 of 28 countries. 64% of people believe journalists are purposely trying to mislead people.

Reuters Institute Digital News Report (2024)

Just 40% of respondents across 47 markets say they trust most news. Trust has declined by more than 15 percentage points since 2016 in many markets.

Pew Research Center (2024)

Only 40% of Republicans trusted national news organizations in 2024, down from 70% in 2016.

Implications

The decline in media trust has significant implications for democracy, public discourse, and the information ecosystem. Platforms like Newdle aim to address these challenges by prioritizing trust in every aspect of the news ecosystem.