What To Watch For As Networks Cover Midterm Election Night: More Data, More Coverage & More Competition
US television networks are preparing extensive coverage of next week’s midterm elections, with more airtime and data-focused programming than in recent cycles. The contest for viewers is also intensifying as podcasters, online creators and pundits offer competing coverage, while the results could shape control of Congress and many governorships and serve as a test of Donald Trump’s standing.
NBC plans a record 13 hours of broadcast coverage, from 5 p.m. ET on Tuesday until 6 a.m. the following morning. For the first time since 2016, major networks will use the same exit poll data, known as The Voter Poll, from SSRS. Networks are also expanding streaming and digital offerings: Fox News plans an AI chatbot, NBC will stream Steve Kornacki’s results coverage, MS NOW will feature Ali Velshi on YouTube, and CBS will run a data-focused programme called The Nerd Show.
In short
- Networks are planning more midterm coverage and data analysis.
- NBC has scheduled a record 13 hours on its broadcast network.
- Broadcasters are competing with online creators for viewers.
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The case for
More extensive, data-focused coverage can help voters understand results across a complex set of races and what they may mean for control of Congress and state governments. Shared exit-poll data may also make network analysis more comparable, while streaming and digital formats can reach audiences who no longer rely on traditional broadcasts.
The case against
The race to offer more hours, platforms and novel features may reward speed and spectacle over careful explanation, especially while results are still developing. Reliance on the same exit-poll source could also narrow the range of analysis, and competing coverage from networks and online commentators may leave viewers with more noise than clarity.
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