A recent survey by YouGov indicates that more Americans trust the Trump administration than the media for accurate and fair information.

The survey points to a growing skepticism towards mainstream news, with many Americans perceiving media coverage of Trump as excessively -- and wrongfully -- negative, as the Post Millennial reports.

The YouGov survey reveals a significant disparity in trust levels between the media and the Trump administration. According to the results, 29% of Americans express confidence in media outlets to fully and accurately report the news. In contrast, a more considerable 44% place their trust in the Trump administration to provide truthful reporting.

Media Coverage Perceived as Unduly Negative

This trust gap underscores a broader sentiment of skepticism among the American public regarding media coverage of Trump. Approximately 40% of survey participants view media reports on the former president as overly negative. A substantial number also share the belief that the media actively wishes for his failure.

Research into trust dynamics reveals that, since 2017, faith in the Trump administration's accuracy has grown. In that year, 18% of Americans stated they held substantial trust in the administration. The recent 2025 survey shows a rise to 25% holding a "great deal" of trust.

Correspondingly, 43% of respondents believe the media harbors a desire to see Trump fail. This view is particularly prevalent among Republicans, 73% of whom agree with this sentiment. Meanwhile, 40% of independents and 15% of Democrats also concur.

Desire for Media Neutrality Apparent

Despite these perceptions, a clear majority across various political affiliations express a wish for neutrality in media coverage.

About 59% of surveyed individuals believe that news outlets should maintain objectivity when reporting on Trump, with Democrats at 64% and Republicans at 52% advocating for this approach.

Interestingly, views within the Democratic Party reveal complexity. While most Democrats prefer neutrality, 42% of them criticize the media for being too supportive of Trump.

The YouGov findings are part of a broader analysis of changing media consumption habits and political communication strategies. President Trump's successful use of alternative media during his 2024 campaign is noted as a contributing factor to his success.

Alternative Media's Role in Shaping Opinions Assessed

Trump's engagement with platforms like podcasts has played an influential part in maintaining direct communication with supporters. By circumventing traditional media channels, he amassed significant followings and broader reach, gathering millions of views on alternative platform content.

This shift is acknowledged even within the mainstream media community. For instance, at the Dealbook Summit in December, CNN host Van Jones admitted the changing landscape of media consumption.

He pointed out the overwhelming streams achieved by non-traditional media figures compared to cable news numbers.

"I'm telling you guys, the mainstream has become fringe and the fringe has become mainstream. There are people out there that are getting 14 million streams, and we're on cable news getting one or two million," Jones remarked, highlighting the competitive disadvantage faced by conventional media outlets.

Conventional Media Facing New Challenges

Jones's observations underscore the challenges traditional media face in maintaining audience engagement. As Americans increasingly turn to alternative media for news, the nature of political discourse is also evolving.

The results of this survey invite reflection on the trust and credibility of information sources. They open further discussion on the role of media in political communication and the implications for democracy.

As the media landscape continues to shift, how news is disseminated and consumed will undoubtedly impact public trust and political narratives.

Ultimately, these findings suggest a period of reevaluation for both media entities and consumers alike.