CNN and MSNBC: Dying for Israel?

The post-2024 election decline in viewership for CNN and MSNBC has been dramatic, with millions of Americans turning away from traditional cable news. While several factors contribute to this trend, one glaring issue stands out: how these networks have approached the Israel-Palestine conflict. In this piece, we explore how the intersection of geopolitics, media bias, and changing viewer expectations may be hastening the demise of these once-dominant outlets.

The Numbers Don’t Lie

CNN and MSNBC have both seen staggering declines in viewership. Reports indicate that CNN’s viewership dropped 40% compared to the same period last year, while MSNBC lost 23% of its audience. These declines are most pronounced in key demographics and primetime slots, where both networks once thrived.

Election fatigue and a general shift to digital platforms are obvious factors, but the ongoing coverage of the Israel-Palestine conflict has also alienated key segments of their audience. The networks’ handling of this sensitive topic has sparked criticism from all sides, exacerbating existing trust issues.

A War of Narratives

The Israel-Palestine conflict remains one of the most polarizing issues in international politics, and CNN and MSNBC’s coverage of the war has failed to strike the right balance. Critics accuse the networks of either oversimplifying the narrative or presenting one-sided accounts that alienate large portions of their audience.

Pro-Israel Bias?

Some progressives claim the networks have leaned heavily toward pro-Israel coverage, echoing U.S. government talking points without delving deeply into the humanitarian crises faced by Palestinians. This has led younger, left-leaning audiences—once a core demographic for MSNBC—to abandon the network for independent voices on platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram.

Not Pro-Israel Enough?

On the other hand, many conservatives and moderates feel CNN and MSNBC have not been supportive enough of Israel, especially during heightened tensions. This group has increasingly gravitated toward Fox News or alternative outlets that unapologetically champion Israel’s position.

Caught in the crossfire, both networks have struggled to retain their viewers while maintaining journalistic credibility. The result? A growing perception that CNN and MSNBC are out of touch with their audiences and ill-equipped to handle such complex geopolitical issues.

Shifting Sands of News Consumption

The broader trend of declining cable news viewership also plays a role. Younger generations, who are less likely to subscribe to cable, are turning to digital platforms for news. Independent journalists, podcasts, and social media influencers now dominate the discourse, offering unfiltered and diverse perspectives that legacy networks struggle to match.

For CNN and MSNBC, this shift is devastating. Their corporate structures are slow to adapt, and their audiences increasingly view them as relics of a bygone era.

The Crisis of Credibility

Trust in traditional media has been declining for years, but the Israel-Palestine conflict has brought this issue into sharper focus.

• CNN: Long accused of sensationalism, CNN’s inconsistent coverage of the conflict has alienated progressives and moderates alike.
• MSNBC: Once considered the go-to network for progressives, MSNBC has faced backlash for sidelining contributors critical of Israel’s actions.

These credibility gaps leave both networks vulnerable in a media environment where authenticity is prized above all else.

Is This the Endgame?

The post-election slump and polarizing coverage of Israel-Palestine may be symptomatic of a larger existential crisis for CNN and MSNBC. Both networks are struggling to define their identities in a fragmented media landscape where trust, authenticity, and adaptability determine success.

To survive, CNN and MSNBC must address their credibility issues, diversify their coverage, and embrace the digital-first mindset that their younger competitors have mastered. Without these changes, the networks risk further alienating their audiences and becoming footnotes in the history of American media.

The dramatic fall in viewership for CNN and MSNBC is a wake-up call. Their decline isn’t just about election fatigue or digital competition—it’s about the inability to connect with audiences on critical issues like Israel-Palestine. As these networks struggle to find their footing, the question remains: will they adapt to the new media reality, or are they destined to fade into irrelevance?

For now, it seems, CNN and MSNBC are dying for Israel—and perhaps for their own survival.

CNN’s Struggle for Relevance: A Deep Dive into Its Decline

CNN, once hailed as “The Most Trusted Name in News,” now finds itself grappling with a crisis of relevance and identity. The network’s staggering post-2024 election viewership decline—down 40% from the same period last year—has brought its deep-seated issues into sharper focus. From leadership turmoil to changing audience habits, CNN’s problems go beyond the surface. This article explores the key factors contributing to its current struggles and what they mean for the future of the network.

Leadership Instability and Strategic Missteps

CNN’s leadership has been a revolving door in recent years, with a string of high-profile CEOs attempting to steer the network in conflicting directions.

• Chris Licht’s Departure: The network’s attempt to shift toward the political center under former CEO Chris Licht alienated many of its progressive viewers while failing to attract conservative audiences. His tenure left CNN without a clear identity, and his departure only deepened the uncertainty.
• Mark Thompson’s Task: The current CEO, Mark Thompson, faces the daunting challenge of reversing the network’s fortunes. However, the combination of slashed budgets and layoffs has created a morale crisis among staff, making meaningful change more difficult.

CNN’s leadership struggles have made it difficult to implement a coherent vision, leaving audiences confused about what the network stands for.

Content Saturation and Audience Fatigue

CNN’s reliance on breaking news and constant political coverage has backfired in the post-election period.

• Election Hangover: CNN built much of its viewership around the Trump presidency and subsequent election cycles, but this strategy has created audience fatigue. With Trump out of the spotlight post-election, the network has struggled to maintain interest.
• Repetition Without Depth: Critics have long accused CNN of sensationalizing minor stories and providing surface-level coverage. This approach may work during crises but alienates viewers looking for in-depth analysis or alternative perspectives.

Without adapting to the changing expectations of viewers, CNN risks becoming irrelevant in a crowded media landscape.

Credibility Issues and Partisan Perceptions

CNN has faced a credibility crisis that undermines its brand as an unbiased source of news.

• Perceived Bias: Many conservatives view CNN as a partisan outlet, while progressives criticize its attempts to cater to the political center. This perception of trying to “please everyone” has left the network pleasing no one.
• High-Profile Misinformation Missteps: Incidents where CNN has been accused of biased reporting or factual inaccuracies have further eroded trust among viewers.

The erosion of trust has driven audiences to alternatives like Fox News, which offers a clear ideological stance, or independent outlets that prioritize transparency.

Weak Digital Strategy

As audiences increasingly shift to digital platforms for news, CNN’s efforts to keep up have fallen short.

• Streaming Misfires: CNN+ was a $300 million experiment that failed spectacularly, shutting down just weeks after its launch. This failure highlighted the network’s inability to understand what modern audiences want from streaming news.
• Lack of Innovation: Competitors like Fox News have leveraged digital platforms and on-demand programming to attract younger viewers, while CNN remains overly reliant on traditional cable broadcasts.

If CNN cannot modernize its digital offerings, it risks losing an entire generation of potential viewers.

The Israel-Palestine Coverage Backlash

CNN’s coverage of the Israel-Palestine conflict has alienated viewers on both sides of the political spectrum.

• Progressive Backlash: Many left-leaning viewers feel CNN’s reporting lacks nuance and disproportionately favors Israel’s perspective, pushing them toward independent outlets offering more balanced coverage.
• Conservative Criticism: Conversely, conservative viewers accuse CNN of being insufficiently supportive of Israel, further diminishing its appeal to this audience.

This failure to strike the right tone in covering such a sensitive issue underscores broader issues with CNN’s editorial approach.

Competition from Alternative News Sources

CNN faces mounting competition not just from Fox News but from digital-first outlets and independent creators.

• Independent Journalism: Platforms like Substack, YouTube, and TikTok have given rise to independent journalists who offer unfiltered, niche perspectives.
• On-Demand Culture: Modern audiences expect personalized, on-demand content, a model that CNN has struggled to adopt effectively.

Without embracing these shifts, CNN risks losing relevance in a media environment increasingly dominated by digital innovation.

Identity Crisis

Perhaps CNN’s biggest problem is its lack of a clear identity.

• What Does CNN Stand For?: In trying to cater to everyone, CNN has alienated its core audience while failing to attract new viewers.
• Competing Narratives: Is it a breaking news network, an analysis hub, or a centrist platform? Without a clear focus, CNN struggles to differentiate itself from competitors.

This identity crisis is a fundamental barrier to the network’s recovery.

What’s Next for CNN?

For CNN to survive and thrive, it must address these systemic issues:

1. Redefine Its Mission: CNN must clarify its purpose and target audience, whether that means leaning into hard-hitting journalism, in-depth analysis, or embracing a centrist position with more conviction.
2. Invest in Digital Innovation: The network must prioritize digital-first strategies to compete in the modern media landscape.
3. Rebuild Trust: Transparency, accuracy, and consistent editorial standards are essential to restoring viewer confidence.
4. Diversify Content: Moving beyond a constant focus on politics to cover culture, science, and global events with depth and balance could attract a broader audience.

CNN’s decline is a cautionary tale for legacy media outlets struggling to adapt to a rapidly changing world. While its problems are significant, they are not insurmountable. With bold leadership, a commitment to innovation, and a willingness to rebuild trust, CNN could reclaim its position as a leader in news.

The question is whether the network has the vision and courage to rise to the challenge—or whether it will continue its slide into irrelevance.

MSNBC: Progressives’ Champion or Relic of the Past?

MSNBC, once the preferred network for progressive viewers, is facing an existential crisis. Despite its reputation for shaping liberal discourse, the network’s post-2024 election viewership has plummeted by 23%, and key primetime shows have seen ratings dive by more than half. Critics argue that MSNBC has failed to adapt to the shifting media landscape and is losing touch with its audience. This article explores the reasons behind MSNBC’s decline and what it must do to regain its footing.

Stagnation in Programming

MSNBC’s reliance on familiar formats and personalities has left it struggling to maintain relevance.

• Overdependence on Stars: For years, the network relied heavily on marquee names like Rachel Maddow and Lawrence O’Donnell. While these hosts have loyal followings, the absence of fresh talent or innovative formats has made the network feel stale.
• Lack of Variety: MSNBC’s programming skews heavily toward political commentary, leaving little room for cultural, scientific, or international coverage. As audiences seek broader perspectives, MSNBC’s narrow focus feels increasingly outdated.

Without evolving its content to reflect changing viewer interests, MSNBC risks further alienating its audience.

Post-Trump Identity Crisis

Like CNN, MSNBC thrived during the Trump years, as its progressive slant attracted viewers eager for a counterbalance to the administration. However, Trump’s departure from office has created a void in its narrative.

• Overreliance on Trump Opposition: MSNBC built much of its programming around anti-Trump rhetoric, which resonated with viewers during his presidency. Post-Trump, the network has struggled to maintain the same level of engagement.
• Failure to Adapt to New Political Dynamics: The network’s coverage often focuses on Washington intrigue and partisan battles, which can feel disconnected from the broader concerns of progressive audiences, such as climate change, economic inequality, and racial justice.

The inability to move beyond its Trump-era identity has left MSNBC floundering in a post-Trump political landscape.

The Israel-Palestine Conflict Backlash

MSNBC has faced significant criticism for its coverage of the Israel-Palestine conflict, leading to audience erosion on both sides of the issue.

• Progressive Backlash: The network’s decision to sideline contributors critical of Israel, such as Mehdi Hasan and Ayman Mohyeldin, angered progressive viewers. Many felt MSNBC was censoring dissenting voices, undermining its credibility as a platform for liberal discourse.
• Moderate Discontent: Conversely, some moderates found MSNBC’s coverage too sympathetic to Palestine, creating a perception of bias that alienated centrist viewers.

The network’s inability to navigate this complex issue effectively has further eroded trust among its core audience.

Competition from Digital Platforms

MSNBC has struggled to keep pace with the rise of digital and independent media.

• Younger Audiences Moving On: Platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Substack offer younger progressives a wide array of alternative voices and perspectives. These outlets often provide more diverse, interactive, and unfiltered content than MSNBC’s traditional programming.
• Lack of Innovation: MSNBC’s digital strategy has been lackluster compared to its competitors. While other networks have embraced streaming and on-demand programming, MSNBC remains heavily reliant on live broadcasts, which are less appealing to modern viewers.

This failure to adapt to changing consumption habits is costing MSNBC a critical demographic: younger, progressive viewers.

Perceived Elitism

MSNBC’s tone and style have increasingly been criticized as elitist, alienating viewers who feel disconnected from its approach.

• Focus on Beltway Politics: By centering its coverage on insider politics and high-profile pundits, MSNBC risks ignoring the issues that resonate most with grassroots progressives.
• Lack of Authenticity: The network’s polished presentation and reliance on establishment figures make it feel out of touch with the raw, grassroots energy driving much of the progressive movement.

Viewers seeking authenticity are increasingly turning to independent creators who reflect their values more directly.

Declining Credibility

Trust in mainstream media has been eroding for years, and MSNBC is no exception.

• Accusations of Bias: Critics on the left accuse MSNBC of prioritizing corporate interests over progressive ideals, while those on the right dismiss it as a partisan echo chamber.
• Inconsistent Standards: Controversial editorial decisions, such as sidelining critical voices or overly sensationalizing certain stories, have undermined MSNBC’s reputation as a reliable news source.

Without rebuilding trust, MSNBC will continue to struggle in an increasingly skeptical media environment.

Leadership Challenges

MSNBC’s leadership faces significant obstacles in navigating the network’s identity crisis.

• Adapting to Change: Balancing the needs of its progressive base with broader appeal is a delicate task, and the network has often failed to strike the right balance.
• Staff Morale: Reports of dissatisfaction among staff, coupled with high-profile departures, suggest internal challenges that may be hampering the network’s ability to innovate and adapt.

Strong leadership will be crucial if MSNBC is to chart a path forward.

What’s Next for MSNBC?

To reclaim its relevance and rebuild its audience, MSNBC must address several key issues:

1. Diversify Content: Expanding beyond political commentary to include cultural, scientific, and international stories could attract a broader audience.
2. Invest in Digital Innovation: Embracing streaming, on-demand content, and interactive programming will be essential for competing in the digital-first era.
3. Rebuild Credibility: Transparent editorial standards and a willingness to embrace diverse perspectives are critical for restoring trust.
4. Energize Its Brand: Introducing fresh talent and innovative formats could reinvigorate MSNBC’s image and appeal to younger viewers.

MSNBC’s decline reflects broader challenges facing legacy media in a rapidly changing world. While the network retains significant influence, its inability to adapt to new realities and meet the needs of its progressive base is eroding its position.

By addressing its stagnation, identity crisis, and digital shortcomings, MSNBC can reclaim its role as a leader in progressive journalism. However, if it fails to evolve, the network risks becoming a relic of the past—overtaken by the very grassroots movements it once championed.