National news is news that takes place in a larger region or country and may affect a significant number of people. National news often focuses on politics, business, and major events. It is typically found on television, radio, and online.
The three big networks — ABC, CBS, and NBC — each produce their own national news program that airs weekday mornings: Good Morning America First Look on ABC, CBS News Mornings on CBS, and Early Today on NBC. These shows usually include a live opening segment, weather reports relevant to a station’s viewing area, and sports news involving local teams.
Many network stations also have a late-night newscast. Depending on the time of night, the show might be called The World Tonight on ABC, 60 Minutes on CBS, or Dateline on NBC. These shows often feature a more in-depth look at major stories that occurred during the day and offer more analysis and commentary from reporters on the scene.
During the Cold War, a special daily news broadcast was added to the networks’ lineups. The program was anchored by men, but in the early 1970s women began to appear in major on-camera newscasting roles. Pauline Frederick, Carole Simpson, and Jessica Savitch all appeared on various national TV news programs at this time.
AP is one of the most respected sources for national news in the United States. Its journalism focuses on important topics like politics, climate change, and tech, with opinion pieces that often spark public debate. The New York Times is another famous news source that focuses on big issues in America and across the globe. It is known for its high readership and bold takes on controversial topics.