Part 3/8:
Recent headlines reflect a deep-seated acknowledgment of this crisis. Even within their own reporting, mainstream media outlets expressed an awareness of their dwindling relevance. CNN announced widespread layoffs due to disappointing viewer metrics related to the recent election, and MSNBC’s viewership saw a drastic reduction shortly thereafter. The reaction to this crisis went beyond basic viewership metrics; several high-profile names in the media like Chris Wallace began to exit traditional platforms in favor of independent podcasting options, where they felt they could connect more authentically with audiences.