NewsNation is an American cable news television network owned and operated by Nexstar Media Group, one of the largest media companies in the United States. It positions itself as a national news source offering fact-based and nonpartisan reporting intended to reflect diverse perspectives across the country. The network is distributed on virtually all pay TV platforms, available through streaming, and on its own digital platforms such as NewsNationNow.com and the NewsNationNow mobile app.
Origins and Ownership
NewsNation has its origins in WGN America, a cable network that for decades aired a mix of syndicated entertainment, reruns, sports, and local Chicago WGN-TV programming. After Nexstar Media Group acquired Tribune Media, which included WGN America, the company initiated a strategic transformation of the cable channel toward national news coverage.
Nexstar Media Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: NXST) is a publicly traded media conglomerate headquartered in Irving, Texas, and led by CEO Perry A. Sook. Nexstar’s portfolio spans 190+ television stations across major U.S. markets, digital media assets, and nationally distributed networks such as NewsNation and Antenna TV.
Rebranding and Expansion
In September 2020, Nexstar debuted a three-hour national news program under the name NewsNation on WGN America, marking the network’s first major push into news broadcasting. This was described as the largest launch of traditional, unbiased prime-time cable journalism in more than two decades.
On March 1, 2021, WGN America was officially rebranded as NewsNation, completing the transformation into a news-oriented channel with expanded programming beyond the initial prime-time newscast. The relaunch included new news and talk programs such as NEWSNATION PRIME, Banfield, and The Donlon Report.
Mission and Editorial Approach
NewsNation markets itself as a source of “unbiased news” that strives to represent a broad spectrum of viewpoints. The network leverages Nexstar’s extensive network of local journalists — drawing on thousands of reporters from Nexstar’s 110 local newsrooms — to inform its national coverage and analysis.
Unlike some cable competitors that are known for strong editorial slants, NewsNation promotes its commitment to fact-based and non-partisan journalism, asserting that its reporting reflects a variety of perspectives without advocating a particular political agenda.
Programming and Schedule
From its rebranding in 2021, NewsNation continuously expanded its news offerings:
NEWSNATION PRIME — The flagship national newscast with anchors covering major U.S. and global headlines.
Banfield — A news and interview program hosted by veteran journalist Ashleigh Banfield.
The Donlon Report — A nightly news and analysis program hosted by Joe Donlon during its tenure.
Additional live news blocks and expanded weekend programming, enhancing the channel’s presence throughout the broadcast day.
By June 1, 2024, NewsNation completed its transition to a full-time cable news outlet, ending regular entertainment reruns and expanding its live news programming on weekends as well as weekdays. High-profile anchors and political analysts such as Dan Abrams, Chris Cuomo, and Adrienne Bankert have anchored key timeslots.
National Reach and Distribution
NewsNation reaches an estimated 75 million television households across the United States, making it one of the larger cable news networks by potential audience. It is accessible via traditional cable and satellite systems, major streaming platforms, and its own digital app — allowing viewers to stream content live or on demand.
By tapping into Nexstar’s vast local news infrastructure, the network aims to present stories with both national significance and local nuance, giving audiences a more comprehensive understanding of events across the country.
Competitive Position and Growth
As a newer entry into the crowded cable news landscape, NewsNation operates alongside entrenched networks like CNN, Fox News, and MSNBC. While its overall viewership remains smaller than these established rivals, recent audience metrics indicate growth, including ratings gains in key demographics and competitive performance against veteran cable news programs in certain time slots.
The network’s expansion to 24/7 live news coverage in 2024 marked a significant milestone, placing it more directly in competition with the major round-the-clock cable news outlets.
Criticism and Public Perception
NewsNation’s journey has not been without scrutiny. Critics and media analysts have debated its editorial balance, production value, and capacity to differentiate itself from competitors. Some viewers and commentators have questioned its brand identity and impact, particularly in relation to its ambitious nonpartisan mission. Nevertheless, NewsNation continues to evolve and expand its audience reach.
Digital and Streaming Strategy
Recognizing shifts in viewer behavior, NewsNation emphasizes digital accessibility. Its streaming presence on platforms like YouTube TV, Hulu Live, Sling, and its standalone NewsNationNow app ensures that it reaches cord-cutters and mobile audiences alongside traditional television viewers.
The network’s digital strategy reflects broader industry trends toward multiplatform distribution and tailored news delivery for diverse audience segments.
Future Outlook
As NewsNation continues to refine its editorial direction and expand its programming slate, its role in the American media ecosystem may further solidify. With investments in live reporting, digital reach, and national news talent, the channel seeks to build trust and credibility among viewers seeking alternatives to established cable news brands.
Its growth trajectory suggests that NewsNation aims to capture a larger share of American viewers interested in comprehensive national news delivered through both traditional and digital mediums.
Conclusion
NewsNation represents Nexstar Media Group’s strategic effort to build a truly national news network grounded in nonpartisan reporting and broad perspective coverage. From its beginnings as an evening newscast on WGN America to its current 24/7 cable news format, the network has carved out a unique position in American television journalism. Its continued expansion, growing reach, and competitiveness reflect ongoing shifts in how audiences consume news and how media companies adapt to a fragmented yet opportunity-rich media landscape.