Election night 2024: Unveiling transparency in TV news coverage

On the brink of the 2024 election night, TV news organizations are championing a wave of transparency to ensure viewers’ trust and clarity. This pivot towards transparent reporting is a response to the pitfalls experienced four years ago.

Lessons from 2020

Four years ago, a single call by a major TV network threw the 2020 election into disarray, particularly the early call in Arizona. Despite being backed by solid data, this call left a lasting impact on newsrooms. Even now, TV executives and on-air talent reflect on that moment. They understand how high the stakes are when reporting election results, hence the push to demystify their processes.

The face of transparency

Every major network is now working on not just presenting election numbers but also explaining their roots, meanings, and implications. Modern viewers can expect an unprecedented level of insight into how results are tabulated and decisions made.

Engaging data scientists and advanced technology

Data scientists will feature prominently during the broadcasts, offering real-time explanations.
Networks are leveraging sophisticated technology to make data more accessible and understandable. Examples include augmented reality graphics from Fox News and NBC’s CGI depiction of Rockefeller Center.

Technological innovations in TV election coverage

The famed “Magic Wall,” first introduced by CNN in 2008, has become a staple in election coverage. Now, nearly every network utilizes a similar tool to visualize data dynamically.

John King will return with his analytical prowess at CNN.
Bill Hemmer at Fox and Tom Llamas at NBC will be breaking down intricate data points.
MSNBC’s Steve Kornacki remains a favorite, with his unique ‘Kornacki Cam’ allowing viewers to watch his real-time analysis on Peacock.

“There’s never a gratuitous live shot with Steve Kornacki,” notes one network moderator. Kornacki’s analysis often delves deep into significant election themes, from gender gaps to major issues like the economy, immigration, and reproductive rights.

Storytelling through data visualization

Augmented reality graphics and touchscreen data tools ensure that even the most complex data is presented engagingly.

One anchor shares, “Seeing graphical shifts in states like North Carolina and Arizona over different elections highlights just how small yet significant these margins of victory can be.” This real-time data visualization underscores the delicate balance in battleground states like Wisconsin, often decided by mere thousands of votes.

Another broadcaster emphasizes, “While technology enhances the viewer’s understanding, the goal is to ensure that data coming in is comprehensible and engaging.”

Beyond TV screens

TV networks are not limiting their transparency efforts to traditional broadcasts. They recognize the importance of digital and social media.

CNN has integrated its Magic Wall within its app, allowing users to interact with the data.
NBC News is ramping up explainer content across TikTok and other social platforms.

These efforts aim to meet audience demands for trustworthy information on their preferred platforms.

Highlighting the decision-makers

Another strategy for bolstering transparency involves showcasing the people behind the election calls. Networks are prepared to bring on decision-makers live to explain their rationale behind making specific calls—or not.

Outsourcing for impartiality

One channel has opted to outsource its forecasting to Decision Desk HQ, ensuring independence from potential lobbying or campaign pressures. This strategic move mirrors efforts in 2020 when there was notable pressure from political campaigns following contentious calls.

An analyst remarks, “Keeping the forecasting process separate preserves its integrity. Observing and questioning the process adds layers of accountability.”

Viewer trust: The ultimate test

Despite advances in transparency and data presentation, the critical challenge is whether viewers will trust this information. The media landscape is fragmented, and viewers can often choose data sources that align with their existing beliefs.

As the 2024 election night unfolds, the true measure of success for these transparency efforts will be how effectively they engage and reassure viewers, regardless of the election results.

Stay tuned for more updates on our social channels as we continue to bring you in-depth insights into this evolving story.