Does the media respond to political messaging? Evidence from local newspaper coverage of climate change
Abstract
Despite the scientific consensus around climate change, skepticism among the general public remains an obstacle for policy. Because the media is the primary channel of information dissemination, media coverage of climate change plays a crucial role in public perceptions. We identify an important factor shaping this coverage-influence of political leaders. Using a regression discontinuity analysis around narrow election victories, we find that a Republican governor causes local newspapers in their state to use a more skeptical tone when discussing climate change.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Media Influence and Politics
Media Studies and Communication
Social Media and Politics
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Journal of Environmental Economics and Management
- Publisher
- Elsevier BV
- Volume
- 138
- Pages
- 103349–103349
- Publication date
- 30 April 2026
- Language
- EN