AM/FM radio is unparalleled in immediacy and the way it serves its audience in the most critical moments in our history. And the time when President Biden announced he was dropping out of the 2024 Presidential election was no different. We saw Radio’s agility in reaching millions with breaking news and powerful coverage.  New York’s 1010 WINS was at the pinnacle of the news cycle, connecting with audiences and infusing the airwaves with the latest facts. The announcement met with a significant flux of listeners, as news is an integral part of Audio consumers’ daily lives and quality content from trusted voices is just what the nation needs in times of social tension and dizzying political announcements coming at audiences from every angle. 

From the moment of the announcement and throughout the day, 1010 WINS had 15% more listeners than the previous week. This is even more impressive considering that the previous weekend had already seen a spike in engagement due to the assassination attempt that kept the audience glued to their radios. Similarly, Los Angeles’s KNX saw an 11% increase in listeners compared to the previous week. These gains highlight how crucial newsradio is for timely and reliable updates, especially during major events. Audiences’ quest for radio news drove a +43% increase in Audacy app downloads and installs compared to the same day last year, underscoring the growing importance of digital platforms in complementing traditional radio broadcasts.

One of the biggest strengths of newsradio is how fast it can deliver breaking news. In the case of Biden’s announcement, 1010 WINS was the first to break the news  at right before 2 PM with broadcast TV networks trailing behind. This lead by 1010 WINS shows just how quickly audio content can immediately share critical information, ensuring listeners get updates as soon as possible. As Ivan Lee, Brand Manager for WCBS 880/1010 WINS indicated “1010 WINS is committed to delivering accurate breaking news. We have a wonderful team of broadcast journalists who were prepared for the possibility of the story and took action when the news broke.  The spike in listeners to the coverage of President Biden’s withdrawal from the election highlights the station’s unique ability to keep audiences informed and engaged during crucial moments.”

It’s not just about speed. Newsradio also excels at keeping its audience engaged over long periods. The sustained increase in listenership, going on for hours past Biden’s announcement, for both 1010 WINS and KNX shows that audiences not only turn to newsradio for immediate updates, but they seek continuous coverage and in-depth analysis.

No matter how the media landscape changes, newsradio keeps thriving. Its ability to deliver timely news, combined with the convenience of audio, at home and on the go, makes it a trusted source for many. In a world where speed and accuracy are essential, newsradio stands out as a medium that consistently meets these needs.

In conclusion, the recent audience data for 1010 WINS and KNX highlights the unique strengths of newsradio in delivering breaking news and keeping listeners engaged. The speed at which newsradio can go live, along with its capacity for continuous coverage, ensures that it remains a vital and relevant medium in today’s fast-paced news environment.