The Press and Democratic Backsliding: How Journalism Has Failed the Public and How It Can Revive Democracy

This edited volume explores the democratic dangers posed by a political press that emphasizes electoral competition, strategy, entertainment, and what Jay Rosen calls ＂savviness＂--praising candidates for being politically smart rather than being honest--in its coverage of a political landscape dominated by a looming authoritarian threat. Contributors document how the American and global political press have failed to fulfill their role in elections and demonstrate how authoritarians have used and will continue to use their power in setting policy before going on to suggest and develop solutions to these problems. These proposed solutions include the adoption of democracy-focused framing, solutions journalism, and solidarity journalism, all of which emphasize the needs and issues of democratic communities over candidates’ political strategy. The book’s recommendations contribute to a reorientation of journalism toward democracy and truth rather than performative detachment and forced balance. Scholars of journalism, mass media, communication, and political science will find this collection to be of particular use.

Thomas J. Johnson is Amon G. Carter Jr. Centennial Professor in the School of Journalism at the University of Texas at Austin and director of the digital media research program.

Aaron S. Veenstra is associate professor and multimedia journalism area coordinator in the School of Communication and Multimedia Studies at Florida Atlantic University.