How Partisan Cable News Mobilizes Viewers: Partisan Media, Discussion Networks and Political Participation

Integrating the extant research on partisan selective exposure, discussion networks and communication mediation model, this survey study (N = 1,203) tests the relationship between proattitudinal partisan media use (Fox News, MSNBC) and discussion networks (like-minded, cross-cutting) in the context of political participation. My results find evidence of asymmetrical relationships, such that Republicans watching Fox News are more likely to participate in politics through like-minded discussion, while MSNBC use is more likely to mobilize viewers directly. This study advances our understanding of the effects of partisan media use and discussion networks on political participation in the era of partisan polarization.

Automated summary

The study explores the relationship between partisan media use and discussion networks in the context of political participation, finding that Republicans watching Fox News are more likely to participate in like-minded discussion, while MSNBC use is more likely to mobilize viewers directly. This research enhances our understanding of the effects of partisan media use and discussion networks on political participation in today's era of partisan polarization.