Regional and source differences in midsize newspapers reporting New York Times v. Sullivan

Abstract

This study focuses on midsize newspaper coverage of the New York Times v. Sullivan case that strengthened press freedom. A content analysis of articles from 29 Northern, 25 Southern and six multistate major metropolitan newspapers identified differences in article frequency and placement related to source and coverage type. The hierarchy of influences model explains perceived regional bias. Midsize newspapers relied on wire news articles more often, with Northern papers publishing more editorials, including multiple editorials and original coverage.