Axios – 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 using appeal 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 Axios just Left of Center biased based on story selection that slightly favors the left. They are High for factual reporting due to proper sourcing and zero failed fact checks.

Detailed Report

Bias Rating: LEFT-CENTER (-2.8)
Factual Reporting: HIGH (0.9)
Country: USA
MBFC’s Country Freedom Rank: MOSTLY FREE
Media Type: Website
Traffic/Popularity: High Traffic
MBFC Credibility Rating: HIGH CREDIBILITY

History

AXIOS Media or Axios is a news and information company started in 2016 by Politico co-founder Jim VandeHei, former Chief White House correspondent at Politico, Mike Allen, and former Politico Chief Revenue Officer Roy Schwartz.

On 08/08/2022, it was announced that Cox Media Group is buying Axios for $525 million.

Read our profile on the United States government and media.

Funded by / Ownership

Cox Enterprises, a significant media conglomerate in the U.S, primarily own Axios. The outlet generates revenue primarily through advertising, native content, and sponsored newsletters. Unlike some outlets, Axios does not rely on subscription fees, allowing its content to remain widely accessible. Sponsorships and advertising partnerships, often integrated into its newsletters and events, are key revenue streams.

Analysis / Bias

Axios demonstrates a slight left-leaning bias. This is reflected in its story selection, which often emphasizes topics such as climate change, social justice, and critiques of conservative policies. While the outlet strives to maintain a neutral tone, its editorial decisions and framing of issues tend to align more closely with liberal perspectives. For example, headlines on political coverage may spotlight topics such as voting rights or gun control, which are traditionally liberal causes. However, Axios avoids overt sensationalism, straightforwardly presenting facts.

Axios has received commendations for its factual reporting, with stories well sourced from experts, official statements, and primary documents. The outlet has maintained a reputation for accuracy, with no significant failed fact checks reported.

Finally, Axios covers news and mostly American politics. There is minimal use of loaded language in headlines such as this: Go deeper: How the NRA’s spending shows the shifting midterms landscape. Further, all articles are well sourced to credible media outlets and/or quotes people making official statements. An analysis of news stories reveals that more favor the left through wording and volume of stories.

Failed Fact Checks

• None in the Last 5 years

Overall, we rate Axios just Left of Center biased based on story selection that slightly favors the left. They are High for factual reporting due to proper sourcing and zero failed fact checks. (2/1/2017) Updated (D. Van Zandt 12/13/2024)

Source: https://www.axios.com/