In the modern information age, the internet has introduced a variety of influential factors, widely accessible to the general public. Information flows relatively freely between people, unimpeded by traditional gatekeepers. 

As a result, the public has grown increasingly aware—and often skeptical—of the information fed to them by both the government and mainstream media. 

Today, skepticism and distrust toward these institutions are at their highest levels in decades, contributing to deepening political division across the country.

This erosion of faith in government has been fueled by political scandals, partisan gridlock, and a growing sentiment that elected officials prioritize corporate interests over the needs of everyday citizens. 

Simultaneously, mainstream news outlets are increasingly viewed as biased and sensationalist, while selectively reporting on issues based on corporate interests. 

This has further widened the divide between the press and the public, a reality that Americans are waking up to. 

Trust in Media at an All-Time Low

Gallup polling over the last five decades reveals a consistent decline in Americans’ trust in mainstream media. In the 1970s, over two-thirds of respondents said they had a “great deal” or “fair amount” of trust in mass media. 

Fast forward to 2024, and the numbers have shifted dramatically: only about 31 percent of Americans still express considerable trust in mainstream media. The remainder report having “not very much” trust or none at all.

A TMJ News correspondent recently spoke to students and staff at the University of South Florida to gauge their views on mainstream media coverage.

One student, Safiyya, commented that while she is “not suspicious of local news,” she believes “international reporting is inherently biased based on the interests of the company” and “whoever funds” media outlets, adding that it was likely a “group of oligarchs.” 

The Government’s Credibility Crisis

Similarly, trust in the U.S. government has seen a dramatic decline in recent decades. 

According to Pew Research Center, public confidence in the federal government to do what is right “just about always” or “most of the time” has plummeted from nearly 80 percent in the 1960s to around 20 percent today. 

This steep decline reflects growing dissatisfaction with political leadership, the influence of money in politics, and repeated failures in policy execution.

High-profile scandals—from Watergate to more recent allegations of corruption and insider dealings—have further fueled public skepticism. 

Additionally, increasing polarization in Congress has resulted in legislative gridlock, preventing meaningful progress on key issues such as healthcare, economic stability, and national security. 

This has reinforced the belief that elected officials serve partisan and corporate interests rather than the broader public good.

Another TMJ News interviewee, a professor at USF who wished to remain anonymous, echoed this sentiment. 

The professor noted previous experience working in local government and expressed little trust in public officials, observing that positions of power—even at the local level—often attract individuals who are “not careful with finances or taking care of the public.”

The Media’s Role in Deepening Distrust

While government missteps fuel dissatisfaction, the mainstream media’s approach to political coverage has also played a significant role in undermining trust. 

Accusations of bias are now more pronounced, with news outlets often presenting drastically divergent narratives of the same events. Media institutions once seen as neutral watchdogs are now perceived as partisan actors, catering to specific political ideologies.

Cable news channels, social media platforms, and online publications have exacerbated the problem by prioritizing sensational headlines and click-driven content over nuanced, objective reporting. 

The rise of alternative media has given Americans access to a broader range of viewpoints, making it even more likely that they will question the information provided by mainstream outlets.

The Path Forward: Can Trust Be Rebuilt?

As trust in government and mainstream media continues to erode, the question remains: can this trend be reversed?

Rebuilding confidence in these institutions requires a multi-faceted approach focused on transparency, accountability, and a commitment to factual reporting.

For the media, this means moving away from sensationalism and partisan-driven narratives in favor of balanced journalism that presents multiple perspectives. 

Emphasizing independent fact-checking, greater transparency in sourcing, and adherence to stronger ethical guidelines could help news organizations regain public credibility.

For the government, addressing corruption, reducing corporate and special-interest influence in policy making, and fostering genuine bipartisanship are crucial steps toward restoring faith in leadership. 

Encouraging civic engagement—through voting, activism, and local involvement—remains one of the most powerful tools for holding public officials accountable.

Ultimately, trust is not easily regained. But without it, the foundations of democracy and its institutions are at risk of crumbling. A nation that lacks faith in both its governing officials and the primary regulators of information is one that faces serious challenges to its stability and future prosperity.