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Difficulty: EasyRoles of the News Media and Media Bias

During a presidential primary campaign, a major news network focuses its daily coverage on which candidates are leading in the latest opinion polls and which candidates are losing support, rather than detailing the candidates' policy platforms. Which of the following roles of the news media is best illustrated by this scenario?

  1. A
    Acting as a watchdog by investigating the candidates' past records and statements
  2. Acting as a scorekeeper by tracking candidate standings in public opinion pollsAnswer
  3. C
    Acting as a gatekeeper by determining which policy issues are placed on the national agenda
  4. D
    Serving as the primary agent of political socialization by shaping the core political values of voters

Answer

Acting as a scorekeeper by tracking candidate standings in public opinion polls
The correct answer is correct because the media is acting as a scorekeeper by focusing on candidate standings in public opinion polls, which is also known as horse-race journalism. This role emphasizes who is winning or losing rather than the substantive policy positions of the candidates.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the scenario details to identify the media's focus.
The media is focusing on candidate standings, poll numbers, and who is leading or losing the race, while ignoring policy platforms.
Understanding the core behavior described helps align it with the correct political science concept.
2
Match the behavior to the defined roles of the media.
Tracking poll performance and political standings is the definition of the scorekeeper (or horse-race journalism) role.
This direct application allows the student to select the option that represents the scorekeeper role.

Key Concept

Roles of the media in elections (specifically the scorekeeper/horse-race journalism role)
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Topics

Roles of the News Media and Media Bias

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