Challenges of Credibility and Fact-Checking in Local News Sources

The challenges of credibility and fact-checking in local news sources primarily stem from the significant decline and closures of local news outlets, which has led to "news poverty"—a lack of access to quality local news in many communities. This decline undermines the ability of local news to provide accurate, trustworthy information and to perform rigorous fact-checking.

Key challenges include:

• Reduced local news coverage and fewer outlets: Since 2008, hundreds of local news providers have shut down, leading to fewer journalists available to verify facts and hold local institutions accountable.

• Loss of advertising revenue: The collapse of traditional ad funding, which historically supported local journalism, has weakened resources for thorough reporting and fact-checking.

• Rise of misinformation: With the vacuum left by disappearing local news, social media and unverified online sources often fill the gap, increasing the spread of misinformation and reducing overall credibility.

• Difficulty for new ventures: New local news startups face challenges in gaining visibility and financial sustainability, especially after major platforms restricted news sharing due to regulatory changes, further limiting fact-checked local content.

• Decline in public trust and civic engagement: The erosion of local news reduces community ties and knowledge about local governance, which can diminish public scrutiny and demand for accurate reporting.

In summary, the shrinking local news ecosystem compromises the capacity for effective fact-checking and credibility, threatening informed democratic participation and increasing vulnerability to misinformation.