Another type of media is radio. Before television (around the 1950s), most Americans relied on radio broadcasts for their news. Although fewer Americans rely on radio as their primary news source, many people still listen to radio news every day.  The most common times listeners tune in are during commutes to and from work in the mornings and evenings.

Local news stations have a particularly large audience because they can report on local weather, traffic, and events. In a short time, listeners can be treated to several areas of interest that matter to them the most.  Since the 1980s, talk radio has emerged as a major force in broadcasting. Talk radio is a radio format in which the hosts mix interviews with political commentary and insight.