Austin American-Statesman – Bias and Credibility

These media sources have a slight to moderate liberal bias.  They often publish factual information that utilizes loaded words (wording that attempts to influence an audience by appeals to emotion or stereotypes) to favor liberal causes.  These sources are generally trustworthy for information but may require further investigation. See all Left-Center sources.

• Overall, we rate the Austin American-Statesman Left-Center biased based on editorial positions that slightly favor the left. We also rate them High for factual reporting due to proper sourcing and a clean fact-check record.

Detailed Report

Bias Rating: LEFT-CENTER (-2.5)
Factual Reporting: HIGH (1.0)
Country: USA
MBFC’s Country Freedom Rating: MOSTLY FREE
Media Type: Newspaper
Traffic/Popularity: Medium Traffic
MBFC Credibility Rating: HIGH CREDIBILITY

History

Founded in 1871, The Austin American-Statesman is the major daily newspaper for Austin, the capital city of Texas. 

Read our profile on USA Media and Government.

Funded by / Ownership

The Austin American-Statesman is owned by Hearst Communications, which owns newspapers, magazines, television channels, and television stations, including the San Francisco Chronicle, the Houston Chronicle, and Esquire. According to Open Secrets, Hearst donated 61% to Republican candidates and causes in 2024. Advertising and subscription fees generate revenue.

Analysis / Bias

In review, the Austin American-Statesman publishes local news through reporters with minimal use of loaded emotional language: Fires set as Austin protests against police violence spread, scatter. National and international news is republished through the Associated Press and other USA Today Network stories.

Editorially, the Austin American-Statesman has endorsed Democratic Presidential candidates more often than Republicans. However, they did not endorse a candidate during the last two elections.  The news is generally reported factually and with a slight left-leaning editorial bias.

Failed Fact Checks

• None to Date

Overall, we rate the Austin American-Statesman Left-Center biased based on editorial positions that slightly favor the left. We also rate them High for factual reporting due to proper sourcing and a clean fact-check record. (D. Van Zandt 7/12/2017) Updated (03/09/2025)

Source: https://www.statesman.com/