Rebuilding Media Trust Through Accurate Trump Coverage “`

As the 2024 election approaches, NYU journalism professor urges political reporters to prioritize in-depth analysis over election predictions, focusing on the potential consequences for American democracy rather than win probabilities.

A potential Trump presidency necessitates a different approach to news coverage. Reports of controversial cabinet appointments, deportation plans, tariffs, cronyism, and enemies lists demand a focus on verifiable facts rather than sensationalized threats.

Speculation about future events is not news. The constant repetition of dire predictions can lead to complacency, as some voters may dismiss concerns based on previous predictions that did not fully materialize.

With a second Trump term possible, excessive focus on worst-case scenarios is counterproductive. While some attention to potential risks is warranted, an overemphasis on threats can foster cynicism and distrust. Reporters should focus on holding the powerful accountable for their actions, not just their words.

Trump excels at making grand promises and then claiming fulfillment, even if the reality falls short. His “Build The Wall” promise resulted in a fraction of the proposed length, without Mexican funding, and fewer deportations than under Obama. However, he appealed to voters prioritizing immigration control due to the Biden administration’s policies.

Trump’s strategy involves making bold promises, attacking critics, and declaring victory regardless of actual implementation. This approach thrives on generating controversy and dismissing expert concerns.

The potential deportation of millions of undocumented immigrants would have devastating consequences, affecting families, communities, and various industries. Even a limited number of deportations would likely be highly impactful and present significant logistical hurdles.

Similarly, widespread tariffs would harm industries reliant on global trade, especially given the significant imports from Canada and Mexico.

Constant amplification of threats promotes “anticipatory obedience,” a hallmark of authoritarianism. Attacks on civil servants and newsrooms encourage self-censorship, creating an environment where actions are hidden behind rhetoric.

Focusing on threats, rather than facts, inadvertently strengthens Trump’s credibility while preventing accountability for his proposals. A better approach would be to allow voters to witness the direct consequences of his policies.

Prioritizing “facts over threats” would shift media focus to the actual impact of the new administration’s actions, rather than speculation. Verifying claims, like the success of border policies or deportation numbers, requires thorough investigation.

This approach demands rigorous reporting, especially concerning national security. It promotes public service and could restore public trust by reducing emphasis on conjecture. The focus should be on concrete actions, not predictions, given the potential for covert actions and back-channel dealings.