Media News Daily: Top Stories for 06/25/2026

Journalists Turn to Newsletters as Media Jobs Shrink

As newsroom layoffs and declining trust in traditional media continue, more journalists are building independent careers through paid email newsletters. A report highlighted Ryan Broderick’s Garbage Day as an example of a newsletter that evolved from a backup project into a sustainable business supported by subscribers and advertisers. The trend reflects a broader shift toward direct audience relationships as reporters seek greater financial independence outside legacy news organizations. Read More (MediaPost Rating)

Fact-Checkers Warn of Mounting Challenges at GlobalFact 2026

Journalists and researchers gathered in Lithuania for GlobalFact 2026, where participants discussed financial pressures, political attacks, and the growing impact of artificial intelligence on fact-checking. Speakers emphasized that AI-generated misinformation, shrinking funding, and coordinated disinformation campaigns are reshaping the profession, while calling for new business models and stronger public engagement. Despite the challenges, attendees argued that global fact-checking efforts remain resilient and continue to play an important role in combating misinformation worldwide. Read More (PolitiFact Rating)

Weather Channel Tops U.S. Media Trust Survey

A new YouGov survey found that The Weather Channel remains America’s most trusted news source for the fourth consecutive year, outperforming PBS and The Wall Street Journal in overall public trust. The study also found that confidence in news organizations generally continues to decline, with several highly partisan outlets ranking among the least trusted. Researchers say the results underscore the growing value audiences place on perceived neutrality and factual reporting in an increasingly polarized media environment. Read More (MediaPost Rating)