Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2-2026

Publisher

Taylor & Francis (Routledge)

Source Publication

Communication Quarterly

Source ISSN

0146-3373

Original Item ID

DOI: 10.1080/27671127.2026.2630945

Abstract

This study examines how local Sunday morning news programs in Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Minnesota, and Ohio covered the 2024 US presidential election during the final 100 days before Election Day. Using qualitative content analysis of 15 newscasts, the study identifies two dominant frames: horse-race coverage and localized issue framing. Horse-race coverage emphasized polling data and pundit commentary, often without providing additional context or analysis. Localized framing varied across states. In Minnesota and Ohio, coverage centered on the vice-presidential candidates, though Minnesota stations gave more sustained attention to their home-state candidate. In Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, and Michigan, the focus shifted to issues of democracy, voting rights, and election integrity. These findings illustrate how local television stations blended national electoral narratives with state-specific concerns, sometimes reinforcing and at other times diverging from broader media trends. The study contributes to ongoing research about election coverage, media framing, and the role of local journalism in shaping public understanding during highstakes political events.

Comments

Accepted version. Communication and Democracy, Vol. 60, No. 1 (2026): 96-115. DOI. © 2026 National Communication Association. Used with permission.

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Available for download on Wednesday, September 01, 2027

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