Oakdale, California, once a hub of traditional media with local newspapers and TV news, has witnessed a striking transformation in its information landscape. As local newspapers dwindled and the pandemic altered perceptions of trustworthy media, residents increasingly turned to podcasts and social media for news, particularly in the wake of polarized elections. By 2024, trust in traditional media had eroded to such an extent that community-driven platforms, like Facebook groups, became the primary source of information, positioning ordinary citizens as new mediators of news.
In Oakdale, Calif., traditional media has largely vanished, replaced by podcasters and online influencers, illustrating a significant shift in local news consumption.
The Town of Oakdale reflects a dramatic decline in trust and availability of traditional media, leading residents to seek news from unconventional sources.
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