Social Media Tops News For First Time Ever

If your news diet involves a scroll through TikTok, a swipe past Rogan clips, and the occasional meme with surprising geopolitical accuracy, you’re not alone. According to the Reuters Institute’s 2025 Digital News Report, social media and video platforms are now the main way people in the US consume news – beating TV and even trusty ol’ news apps.

Yep, 54% of Americans now get their updates from places like Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube. That’s more than the 50% still tuning into TV and the 48% opening actual news websites. In a world where your For You page knows your political leanings better than your parents, it’s not exactly shocking.

Image @techbullion via Pinterest

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“The rise of social media and personality-based news is not unique to the United States,” the report explains, “but changes seem to be happening faster – and with more impact – than in other countries.” Translation? The US is speeding toward an algorithm-curated news reality where traditional media is just another thumbnail in the feed.

Leading the charge is podcaster Joe Rogan, who reached nearly a quarter of Americans last week alone. That’s 22% of people who’ve seen him dish out commentary – whether they like it or not. As Nic Newman, the report’s author, puts it, this “represents another significant challenge for traditional publishers.” Spoiler: journalists are no longer the gatekeepers.

Image @joerogan via Instagram

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Meanwhile, politicians are ditching hard-hitting interviews for cosy chats with influencer hosts. Why face Paxman-style grilling when you can sip coffee with someone who won’t ask about your tax returns? The report warns that many of these personalities get “special access but rarely ask difficult questions” – and they’re also named as major culprits in spreading misinformation, right up there with politicians themselves.

And it’s not just Facebook boomers and Rogan bros. TikTok is the fastest-growing news platform, used by 17% globally, up four points from last year. But while Gen Z might trust influencers for the scoop, they’re also twice as likely to turn to AI chatbots for their news than the rest of us.

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Still, all is not lost for legacy media. Despite shifting habits, people of all ages say they do still value trusted brands – even if they rarely click on them.

Oh, and for those wondering: Threads, Bluesky, and Mastodon are still vibing in the “maybe one day” corner of the internet, with under 2% reach. Sorry, Zuck.