U.S. Adults Have Turned to Creators for Election News
A new YouGov study shows most Americans rely on independent creators for 2026 midterm election information.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Elections
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Sixty-four percent of U.S. adults now encounter information regarding the 2026 midterm elections through online creators. Younger demographics show higher reliance, with 77% of adults aged 18 to 29 accessing content through these channels.
Why it matters
Many consumers value the unique perspectives and relatability that independent creators provide over traditional media outlets. This shift represents a significant move in how the American public consumes political discourse leading up to midterm elections.
A YouGov poll of 2,000 U.S. adults found 64% get midterm news from creators, with a 2.46 percentage point margin of error. Engagement is consistent, as 43% of adults receive such information at least weekly.
The players
YouGov
YouGov is a global public opinion and data company that provides research and analytics on consumer trends and political attitudes.
The details
Nearly one-third of regular content consumers trust independent creators more than traditional media sources. While 47% of these consumers appreciate unique perspectives, 54% verify information against outside sources, though half of respondents remain wary of using artificial intelligence for election topics.
Timeline
The survey was conducted from September 16 to September 28, 2026.
Political Context
Opposition to this trend often centers on concerns regarding misinformation and the lack of editorial standards in independent content. Critics argue that relying on creators rather than traditional journalism threatens the objective verification necessary for a functional democracy.
This trend means voters must be more vigilant in verifying claims found on social media platforms. With 54% of consumers checking outside sources, adopting an active verification habit is essential to ensuring you have accurate information before casting your ballot.
The takeaway
The rise of independent creators as primary news sources signals a fragmentation of the media landscape that requires higher levels of media literacy from voters. Readers should continue cross-referencing creator claims with reputable government and non-partisan sources to ensure electoral accuracy.
Further reading
For broader trends on how voters engage with digital platforms, visit the Elections section.
Live Poll
Do you trust information you get from online creators more than from traditional news outlets?
