Title: Avoiding Media Bias When Covering Political News
Headings: Avoiding Media Bias When Covering Political News
Avoiding Media Bias When Covering Political News
Expect to Be Accused of Media Bias
Check Your Stories for Accuracy
Determine Whether Your Story is Fair to All Candidates
Defend Yourself Against Claims of Media Bias

Content: Avoiding Media Bias When Covering Political News
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Avoiding Media Bias When Covering Political News
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Glenn Halbrooks wrote about news media for The Balance Careers. He is a TV news director with more than 30 years experience. Read The Balance's editorial policies
Glenn Halbrooks
Updated January 28, 2020
Politicians and their staff members are usually experts at manipulating media coverage in order to advance their careers and their campaigns. That includes accusing reporters of media bias when unfavorable stories are published in print, on the air or online. When covering political news stories, make sure your stories measure up to ethical standards so your reports don't back up their claims of media bias. Expect to Be Accused of Media Bias
Any reporting on a political campaign will include good and bad news. If you are assigned to cover a candidate, there will be a day when they stumble -- making a verbal gaffe, misstating a fact, or sometimes literally stumbling as they trip over a broken sidewalk. Reporting facts doesn't equal media bias, though overly-aggressive campaign workers might try to con voters into thinking that. Check Your Stories for Accuracy
Some reporters who don't have media bias are guilty of lazy reporting, which can appear to be the result of political leanings. Make sure all political stories are accurate because campaign workers will be happy to rip your reports to shreds if it benefits their candidate.