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One in five Americans now turns to TikTok for news, a sharp rise since 2020

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Wednesday, October 1st 2025 at 11:12 GMT by The Financial Express
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TikTok Takes the Front Seat in U.S. News Consumption: One in Five Americans Now Rely on the Short‑Video App for Headlines

A recent survey published by the Financial Express has revealed a startling shift in how Americans get their daily news: one in five (20%) now turn to TikTok for updates. This figure represents a dramatic rise from just 5% in 2020, underscoring the platform’s meteoric ascent from a meme‑centric pastime to a mainstream news source. The data, drawn from a large nationwide poll conducted by a respected research firm, shows that TikTok has moved beyond its original identity as a platform for dance challenges and lip‑sync videos to become a legitimate conduit for news content, especially among younger audiences.

How the Numbers Look

According to the survey, 20% of U.S. adults report using TikTok at least once a week to stay informed about current events. When the data is broken down by age, the picture becomes even clearer:
- Gen Z (ages 18‑24): 35% say TikTok is their primary news source.
- Millennials (ages 25‑39): 28% rely on the platform.
- Generation X (ages 40‑55): 14% use TikTok for news.
- Baby Boomers (ages 56‑75): 4% mention TikTok as a news source.

The survey also indicates that TikTok’s role in news consumption has grown most sharply since 2020, a period that coincided with the global pandemic and a surge in social media usage. The platform’s algorithm, which curates content based on users’ engagement history, has made it easier for people to stumble upon bite‑sized news clips, political commentary, and viral “news hacks” that capture attention in seconds.

TikTok vs. Traditional News Outlets

While the platform’s share of the U.S. news market remains modest compared to giants like Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter, it is rapidly closing the gap. The Financial Express article points out that TikTok’s news‑related viewership outpaced that of traditional outlets in the 18‑34 age group for the first time in the past decade. For instance, TikTok’s daily active users (over 1.2 billion worldwide) outnumber the combined daily readership of The New York Times, Washington Post, and CNN among Gen Z viewers.

Moreover, mainstream media organizations have begun to experiment with TikTok to reach audiences that were previously elusive. CNN, Fox News, and Bloomberg have all launched official TikTok channels, producing 15‑second “news briefs” and interactive Q&A sessions. These outlets aim to capitalize on the platform’s high engagement rates and viral potential. A CNN representative noted that “our TikTok presence has seen a 150% increase in viewership over the last six months,” while a Fox News spokesperson highlighted that the channel’s “short‑form videos resonate with younger viewers who prefer quick, digestible content.”

The Appeal of Bite‑Sized Journalism

The article argues that the success of TikTok as a news platform hinges on its ability to transform dense reporting into visually engaging, easily consumable snippets. Journalists and independent creators use music overlays, text captions, and fast cuts to distill complex stories into a single, shareable video. The “15‑second news” trend has become especially popular during breaking events, where users can watch a rapid summary before deciding to dig deeper via other sources.

However, this format also raises concerns about depth and accuracy. Short videos often omit nuance, leading to potential misinterpretation. The Financial Express cites research from the Pew Research Center that found that 64% of TikTok users believe that “viral videos are more reliable” than longer, traditional news segments—a perception that could contribute to misinformation spread.

Expert Commentary

The article quotes Dr. Lisa Torres, a media studies professor at Columbia University, who says, “TikTok is redefining the news cycle by accelerating the speed at which information spreads. It’s not just a platform for entertainment; it’s become a cultural hub where news is consumed, interpreted, and shared in real time.” She adds that this rapid dissemination can be a double‑edged sword: “While it democratizes access, it also amplifies the risk of misinformation, especially when content creators do not adhere to journalistic standards.”

Regulatory and Ethical Concerns

Given the surge in news consumption on TikTok, regulators have taken notice. The article references recent statements from the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Department of Justice (DOJ), which are investigating whether TikTok’s algorithm might be “favoring” certain political narratives. There is also growing scrutiny over TikTok’s data‑collection practices, as the platform’s algorithm relies heavily on user interaction data to recommend content. Critics argue that this can create filter bubbles, where users are exposed only to viewpoints that reinforce their existing beliefs.

In response, TikTok has announced that it will label “verified news” content more prominently and collaborate with fact‑checking organizations. The platform also introduced a “news” category in its app, making it easier for users to filter out entertainment‑only content.

What the Shift Means for the Future of News

The rise of TikTok as a news source signals a broader trend in media consumption: a pivot toward short, mobile‑first, algorithm‑driven content. Traditional news outlets will need to adapt or risk being left behind by younger viewers who no longer rely on print or linear broadcast formats. At the same time, the platform’s potential to spread misinformation will require a careful balance between innovation and responsible journalism.

The Financial Express concludes that while TikTok’s 20% share might seem modest in absolute terms, it is a powerful indicator of how rapidly the media landscape is changing. The platform’s ability to capture attention and deliver real‑time updates will continue to make it a significant player in the U.S. news ecosystem—especially among the next generation of news consumers.

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