Media News Daily: Top Stories for 01/30/2026

This page hosts daily news stories about the media, social media, and the journalism industry. Get the latest Hirings and Firings, Media Transactions, Controversies, Censorship Issues, and more.

The Nation Nominates Minneapolis for Nobel Peace Prize Amid Immigration Tensions

Progressive media outlet The Nation has announced its formal nomination of Minneapolis and its residents for the Nobel Peace Prize. The editorial board cited the city’s collective nonviolent resistance to President Trump’s immigration enforcement policies, which have resulted in two recent fatal shootings. The nomination statement, set to be submitted to the Norwegian Nobel Committee, praises the city’s solidarity and courage in the face of federal actions, describing Minneapolis as a beacon against governmental violence. The move follows heightened national attention on the city after the deaths of Alex Pretti and Renee Good at the hands of federal immigration agents. (Read More) (The Hill Rating)

UK Regulator Urges Google to Let Publishers Opt Out of AI Overviews

The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is calling on Google to introduce a publisher opt-out mechanism for AI Overviews and training datasets. As part of broader oversight following Google’s designation as a strategic market operator, the CMA’s proposals aim to ensure transparency and fairness in how Google ranks content in both traditional search and AI-powered features. Critics argue the measures fall short, with some calling for mandatory compensation to publishers for traffic loss (YES!) (Read More) (MediaPost Rating)

RSF: Record Aid to Journalists Amid Conflict and Crackdowns in 2025

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) provided emergency aid to 749 journalists across 76 countries in 2025, marking a sharp rise in needs driven by escalating conflicts and authoritarian repression. Over 75% of those aided required emergency relocation, with significant support going to journalists from Afghanistan, Russia, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. RSF warned of the growing challenges in securing humanitarian visas and called for urgent international policy reforms. Women journalists faced particularly harsh crackdowns, especially in Afghanistan and India. (Read More) (RSF Rating)