

Fox News vs CNN | Cheerleader in Chief | 3
19 snips Aug 28, 2024
The frantic race between CNN and Fox News during the September 11 attacks reveals the intense competition for viewership. As the Iraq War unfolds, both networks showcase contrasting editorial strategies, leading to significant shifts in audience perception. The fall of Saddam Hussein's statue marks a turning point in news coverage. Explore how Fox News rises to dominance, while CNN grapples with evolving strategies to attract younger viewers amidst scandals. This rivalry reshapes the landscape of American media, highlighting high-stakes decision-making in breaking news.
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9/11 Coverage at CNN
- On 9/11, CNN's newsroom raced to cover the unfolding tragedy, with managing editor Kevin McAllister directing crews and prioritizing footage.
- CNN boss Walter Isaacson urged showing impactful images while also being mindful of graphic content, reflecting the difficult balance.
News Crawl Deployment
- The overwhelming news rush on 9/11 led CNN to implement the news crawl earlier than planned.
- Fox News, however, was the first to deploy it, a testament to their quick thinking in a crisis.
War on Terror Coverage Strategies
- Despite CNN's superior resources and initial ratings win on 9/11, Fox News' approach to the War on Terror proved more effective in the long run.
- This suggests that factors beyond resources, such as narrative and audience engagement, play a crucial role in news network success.