by Traditional news outlets have long dominated election and political coverage. However, the new digital age has empowered independent creators to reach vast audiences. With the rise of live-streaming it has become a focal point for all types of entertainment, offering real-time data and analysis comparable to traditional major networks.
The Success of Steven Crowder
Media coverage of politics, especially during the recent 2024 election, has shifted mainstream attention to a wide range of platforms that reach audiences traditional outlets often miss. Steven Crowder’s “Election Livestream of the Century” achieved unprecedented success during the 2024 election, peaking at 574,400 concurrent viewers across platforms like Rumble and YouTube. This milestone underscores the growing influence of independent media not only in political coverage but also in general entertainment.
A Shift in Media
Platforms like Twitch, YouTube, and Kick have gained enormous success in viewership and international reach. Focusing on a rising platform like Rumble, a streaming service launched in 2013, dedicated to preserving free expression, supporting independent creators, and positioning itself as an alternative to traditional media. It has dedicated its position in media to preserving creators who have either been shut down or silenced by media incumbents. Crowder’s success on Rumble highlights the platform’s role in supporting diverse opinions and authentic expression, aligning with its commitment to fostering open dialogue. This shift indicates a broader trend where audiences seek alternative sources for news and commentary, moving away from traditional media outlets. Rumble’s dedication to creating technologies immune to cancel culture has made it a preferred platform for creators like Crowder, who value freedom of expression.
Implications For the Future
This event highlights a trend where audiences seek non-traditional perspectives beyond mainstream media. The success of such independent streams encourages more creators and companies to produce similar content, potentially reshaping the media landscape. According to media expert Neil Mandt, the rise of streaming platforms is leading to significant audience fragmentation as viewers increasingly turn to alternative sources for news and entertainment. This shift complicates the traditional ad-based revenue models and pushes legacy networks to adapt by launching their streaming services. This challenges networks to maintain relevance amid audiences’ growing preference for diverse and unfiltered content on platforms that prioritize freedom of expression and independence.
Looking To the Future
Streamers like Kai Cenat, Steven Crowder, and HasanAbi have found success covering a range of content, including video games, politics, and cultural commentary. Many traditional media companies are going to have to find innovative ways to maintain their influence over news and media to compete with these independent sources streaming services. As audiences continue to diversify their media consumption, the influence of independent creators is poised to grow.
