Internet the source of presidential campaign news for quarter of Americans, survey claims

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Nearly twice as many Americans are using the internet as their major source for news on the presidential campaign than at the same point four years ago, according to a survey.

A study by the Pew Research Centre found that nearly a quarter of Americans are turning to the internet for their campaign coverage (24 per cent) compared to just 13 per cent who turned to the net for news of the previous race for the White House in 2004.

In 2000, the figure was just nine per cent. (Survey results here ).

The internet in now the leading source of campaign news for younger people, with 42 per cent of those respondents ages 18 to 29 regularly turning to the web for news on candidates.

A previous study, in January 2004, found that just 20 per cent of young people said they routinely got campaign news from the internet.A previous study, in January 2004, found that just 20 per cent of young people said they routinely got campaign news from the internet.

The report also found that a wide number of sources were being sought on the internet. MSNBC was used by 26 per cent of respondents, CNN 23 per cent and Yahoo News 22 per cent.

Non-traditional news sources of campaign information also registered. Three per cent said they used the Drudge Report or MySpace, while two per cent highlighted YouTube.

Local television still remained the place most American’s got their fix of politics news. However, local TV news’ popularity had dropped slightly to a position where 40 per cent said they turned to in for their campaign news. Compared to 42 per cent in 2004, and 48 per cent in 2000.