TV Ratings Surge as Donald Trump Wins US Election
The announcement of Donald Trump's victory in the 2024 US presidential election on Wednesday sparked a significant surge in television viewership across France. Many viewers tuned in to catch the latest developments, particularly on news channels, as Médiamétrie reported a notable increase in audience figures. Between 6:30 and 9:30 AM, approximately 696,000 viewers (19.2% of the audience) watched "Télématin" on France 2, while earlier, from 3 AM to 6:30 AM, only 81,000 viewers (8.9%) were tuned in to the channel's American night coverage.
In stark contrast, TF1's coverage attracted just 46,000 viewers (5.6%). The ratings for morning shows also reflected this trend, with "Bonjour!" attracting 342,000 viewers (8.8%). Despite the significant international news, the overall market shares for these channels experienced a decline, indicating an increased public interest in the election results.
Mixed Reactions to ZDF's Unique US Election Night Coverage
Meanwhile, in Germany, ZDF's approach to covering the US election night received mixed reviews from viewers. The channel incorporated unconventional elements, such as a live band and a buzzer to announce new results, which divided audience opinions. While some viewers appreciated the light-hearted atmosphere, others found it inappropriate for such a critical political event. Presenter Shakuntala Banerjee explained that the band would help fill gaps during the lengthy coverage, which ran until 7 AM.
Despite the entertaining aspects, many viewers criticized the decision to include a band during serious announcements, with comments ranging from humor to outright disapproval. Some found the buzzer distracting and questioned the need for such frills during an election broadcast.
Impact of Trump's Victory on Media Consumption
Trump's victory not only dominated television ratings but also influenced social media discussions and public sentiment. The contrasting styles of coverage between French and German broadcasters highlight differing cultural approaches to significant political events. While France leaned towards traditional news reporting, Germany's ZDF attempted to blend entertainment with information, leading to a lively yet contentious viewing experience.
As the media landscape continues to evolve, the impact of high-stakes elections on viewership patterns remains a critical area of interest for broadcasters and advertisers alike.
