The mainstream media (MSM) is portrayed as being in a significant decline, suffering from ailments described as Trump Derangement Syndrome (TDS) and a “woke-mind virus.” This deterioration began in 2016 when Donald Trump won the presidency against Hillary Clinton, leading to widespread criticism of the MSM for its failure to accept this outcome. Once a credible source of information during the mid-20th century, exemplified by respected journalists like Edward R. Murrow and Walter Cronkite, the media landscape has shifted dramatically. Critics note that the MSM has devolved into platforms that seemingly prioritize entertainment over factual reporting, a shift highlighted by the trivialization of serious topics by commentators on shows like “The View.”
The rise of alternative media and podcasts has been a significant reaction to the MSM’s state. Individuals like Joe Rogan, who transitioned from comedy to a powerful podcasting platform, exemplify this trend. Rogan and others are recognized for engaging with a diverse array of views and inviting guests that mainstream outlets label as controversial or fringe. This breaking away from the traditional media model has resonated with audiences tired of perceived bias and elitism in reporting. As a result, viewership has shifted dramatically, with alternative media channels outpacing classic news outlets in popularity, illustrated by cases where Hallmark channel ratings surpassed those of the MSM.
As audiences increasingly customize their information consumption through digital platforms, traditional news broadcasts have become less relevant. The choice to engage with content at one’s convenience—while multitasking—has altered the relationship between viewers and news. This shift in viewing behavior coincides with a growing distrust in media, fueled in part by erroneous reporting on significant issues like COVID-19 and political events. Elon Musk’s acquisition of Twitter (now X) in 2022 has catalyzed discussions about media integrity and free speech, providing a platform for journalists to unveil governmental and institutional manipulations of media narratives.
The backlash against the MSM reached a critical point as the public began to comprehend the implications of TDS. The derogatory labels used against Trump were inadvertently extended to his supporters, solidifying a perception of the MSM as distanced from the average citizen’s views. Many viewers began to reject mainstream narratives, opting instead to consume media that resonated more authentically with their experiences and beliefs. This rejection signaled a broader movement away from mainstream narratives that many felt erroneously represented their realities.
The commentary concludes with a sardonic farewell to the MSM, humorously noting its remaining figures, like Chris Cuomo and Rachel Maddow. The insinuation is that the MSM, charged with misleading the public for years, has diminished in both credibility and relevance. Among its supposed survivors, a notable mention is Elon Musk, who encapsulated the shift in media dynamics by asserting that users on his platform are now the media entities themselves. Through gestures like this, the evolving landscape of information dissemination is highlighted, indicating a significant transition in how news is produced and consumed.
Overall, the article reflects a critical view of the transformation of traditional media into a realm branded by perceived biases and disconnect from the public. It posits that the rise of alternative platforms and the challenges posed to MSM authority indicate a profound change in the landscape of information, where consumers are reclaiming their role as active participants in media creation and dissemination. As trust in traditional sources wanes, the implication is that the future of news may lie in decentralized, user-driven experiences that prioritize diverse perspectives over established narratives.
