Fact Checking

Media News Daily: Top Stories for 10/31/2024

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This page hosts daily news stories related to the media. Check back often, as new stories may be added here throughout the day.

X Struggles with EU User Decline and Cuts Moderation Staff

X (formerly Twitter) continues to lose monthly active users in the EU, reporting 105 million users between April and September—a decline of nearly 724,000 from its previous period. Additionally, moderation staff have dropped from 2,294 to 1,275 globally, raising concerns over content control amid increasing reports of misinformation and hate speech. X’s reliance on its Community Notes system for content moderation remains under scrutiny, particularly as few moderators cover select EU languages. (Read More) – Social Media Today Rating

The Washington Post’s Non-Endorsement Sparks Subscription Loss and Boosts Rivals

The Washington Post’s decision not to endorse a presidential candidate led to a major subscriber drop of 250,000, with many citing the non-endorsement’s timing just before the election. Competing outlets like The Guardian, Boston Globe, and Philadelphia Inquirer have seen subscription spikes, partly attributed to the stance of these publications on endorsements. The Guardian’s email campaign, positioning itself as independent and publicly funded, raised over $2 million from U.S. readers. (Read More) – Nieman Lab Rating

Misleading Political Ads on Facebook Misrepresent Kamala Harris’s Policies

A series of deceptive Facebook ads targeting Kamala Harris’ policy positions has reached millions in swing states, claiming she supports controversial policies she does not endorse. The ads, funded by a dark money group tied to Elon Musk, align with a broader strategy of targeting undecided voters using misleading political information. While Meta’s ad library provides transparency on ad funding, critics say the ads’ misleading disclosures add to voter confusion. (Read More) – NPR Rating

GB News Faces £100,000 Fine Over Impartiality Breach

Ofcom fined GB News £100,000 for breaching due impartiality rules in an interview with then-Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, which the broadcaster plans to contest. GB News argues that the decision attacks free speech, citing Sunak’s interview as part of its “People’s Forum” series meant to provide a direct channel for public questions. The regulator cited repeated impartiality breaches by GB News, which has contested Ofcom’s ruling in a judicial review. (Read More) – Press Gazette Rating

Gannett Criticized for Presidential Non-Endorsement Policy Shift

Former Gannett executive Ken Paulson criticized the company’s decision to avoid endorsing any presidential candidate in 2024, diverging from its prior stance. Paulson argues this prevents local Gannett papers like Detroit Free Press and Sarasota Herald-Tribune from offering informed endorsements relevant to their communities. Gannett’s spokesperson defended the move as a decision by editorial leaders, though Paulson warns it could limit civic engagement and the media’s role in democracy. (Read More) – Poynter Rating