Ainsley Earhardt – 20%
When Ainsley Earhardt first joined Fox News, she openly admitted that politics was not an area in which she had extensive expertise. Nevertheless, years of experience and a warm on-air presence helped her establish herself as one of the network’s most familiar and trusted personalities. As a co-host of Fox & Friends, one of Fox News’ highest-rated programs, Earhardt has become a daily source of news and commentary for millions of Americans. Supporters often point to her approachable demeanor and authenticity as reasons for her popularity. Veteran broadcaster Deborah Knapp once praised Earhardt’s ability to connect with viewers, noting that the personality audiences see on television closely mirrors who she is off-camera. This genuine style has helped her earn trust from a significant segment of the viewing public.
Ainsley Earhardt 20%
Anderson Cooper – 29%
Few television journalists generate as much divided opinion as Anderson Cooper. According to the survey, Cooper managed the unusual feat of appearing among both the most trusted and least trusted news personalities. While a notable percentage of respondents said they had little faith in his reporting, an even larger group expressed strong confidence in him as a journalist. This contrast led Morning Consult to label him one of the most polarizing figures in television news. Much of the divide appears to follow political lines, with Democrats generally expressing higher levels of trust while many Republicans remain skeptical. Despite these differing opinions, Cooper’s long career and prominent role at CNN continue to make him one of the most influential names in broadcast journalism.
Anderson Cooper 29%
Chris Cuomo – 14%
Chris Cuomo has spent years attempting to carve out a unique identity within the crowded world of cable news. While known for his aggressive interviewing style and willingness to challenge political figures, he has often found himself making headlines for reasons unrelated to traditional journalism. Public debates, viral confrontations, and scrutiny surrounding interviews involving his brother, former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, frequently placed him at the center of controversy. These moments sometimes overshadowed his work as a news anchor and may have contributed to lower trust scores among survey respondents. Although Cuomo maintained a strong public profile, many viewers remained divided about his credibility and role in modern political coverage.
Chris Cuomo 14%
Hoda Kotb – 24%
Hoda Kotb has built a reputation as one of television’s most respected and relatable broadcasters. As a co-host of NBC’s Today, she has become a familiar face to morning audiences across the country. Her trust rating reflects years of experience, professionalism, and a personal story that resonates with many viewers. Having overcome breast cancer, Kotb has become an advocate for health awareness and inspirational causes, earning admiration that extends beyond journalism. Her decades-long career in broadcasting has allowed her to establish a strong connection with audiences, and many people appreciate the empathy and sincerity she brings to her reporting and interviews.
Hoda Kotb 24%
Jake Tapper – 19%
Jake Tapper has long been regarded as one of CNN’s most respected journalists, earning recognition for his detailed reporting and willingness to challenge powerful figures regardless of political affiliation. As chief Washington correspondent and host of The Lead, Tapper has built a reputation for thorough preparation and fact-based analysis. Media observers frequently praise his commitment to accuracy, noting that he often prioritizes getting the story right over maintaining favorable relationships with political insiders. This dedication has helped him earn the trust of a substantial portion of viewers, contributing to his reputation as one of the more credible voices in modern political journalism.
Jake Tapper 19%
Lara Logan – 18%
Lara Logan’s career has been defined by fearless reporting from some of the world’s most dangerous conflict zones. The South African journalist gained international recognition through her work with CBS News before later joining Fox Nation. Her willingness to report directly from war zones earned widespread respect, particularly after surviving a violent assault while covering events in Egypt. However, her career has also faced challenges, including criticism over inaccurate reporting related to the Benghazi attack. Although she publicly apologized for those errors, subsequent controversies led to mixed public perceptions. As a result, Logan’s trust ratings reflect both admiration for her courage and concerns about certain aspects of her reporting record.
Lara Logan 18%
Chris Hayes – 18%
Chris Hayes has become a prominent figure on MSNBC through his program All In with Chris Hayes. Known for blending news analysis with progressive commentary, Hayes has cultivated a loyal audience while also attracting criticism from those who disagree with his viewpoints. Survey results suggest that not all viewers are convinced by his approach, with a portion expressing low levels of trust in his reporting. However, Hayes has openly stated that he is less concerned with tailoring his content to maximize popularity and more focused on presenting issues in a way he believes is meaningful. That commitment to his editorial style has earned both devoted supporters and outspoken critics.
Chris Hayes 18%
Lesley Stahl – 26%
As one of the most recognizable journalists in American television history, Lesley Stahl has spent decades earning the respect of audiences through her work on 60 Minutes. Since entering the profession in the early 1970s, she has interviewed world leaders, investigated major stories, and built a reputation for asking difficult questions. Her extensive experience and steady presence have helped her maintain a strong level of trust among viewers. Stahl also attracted national attention for her contentious interview with former President Donald Trump in 2020, a conversation that highlighted her reputation for pressing guests on challenging issues regardless of political consequences.
Lesley Stahl 26%
John Dickerson – 19%
John Dickerson has established himself as a thoughtful and balanced journalist throughout his years with CBS News and Time magazine. While he may not generate as many headlines as some of his peers, his steady and professional approach has earned him respect within the industry. Many observers appreciate his ability to focus on facts rather than injecting personal opinions into his reporting. Because he has largely avoided major controversies, Dickerson is often viewed as a dependable and credible source of information. His trust rating reflects a career built on consistency, professionalism, and measured analysis rather than sensationalism.
John Dickerson 19%
Savannah Guthrie – 21%
Savannah Guthrie has become one of the leading faces of NBC News through her role on Today. Her background sets her apart from many television journalists, as she also holds a law degree, which some viewers believe enhances her ability to analyze complex issues and hold public figures accountable. Guthrie earned additional praise for her performance during high-profile political town halls, where she demonstrated a willingness to ask direct and challenging questions. Combined with her polished presentation style and years of journalistic experience, these qualities have helped her maintain a strong reputation among television audiences.
Savannah Guthrie 21%
Brian Williams – 24%
Brian Williams enjoyed one of the most recognizable careers in television journalism, becoming a household name through his role as anchor of NBC Nightly News. His calm demeanor and polished delivery helped him guide viewers through major world events, natural disasters, and political developments for years. However, his reputation took a significant hit in 2015 when it was revealed that he had inaccurately described aspects of his experiences during the Iraq War. The controversy led to his departure from NBC’s flagship evening broadcast. Despite the setback, Williams successfully rebuilt his career as host of MSNBC’s The 11th Hour, where he attracted a loyal audience and demonstrated remarkable resilience. Even after one of the biggest scandals in modern broadcast journalism, many viewers still regard him as a credible and trustworthy news figure.
Brian Williams – 24%
Tamron Hall – 23%
Tamron Hall has spent decades building a respected career in television, earning recognition for both her journalistic skills and her commitment to important social issues. Best known for her work on MSNBC and later through her own successful daytime talk show, Hall has established herself as a trusted voice among many viewers. Her accomplishments include prestigious industry awards, such as an Emmy, along with widespread praise for her professionalism. Beyond broadcasting, she has become a passionate advocate against domestic violence and has used her platform to raise awareness about issues affecting families across the country. Supporters frequently highlight her careful fact-checking, thoughtful interviewing style, and willingness to tackle difficult conversations, all of which have contributed to her strong trust ratings.
Tamron Hall 23%
Christiane Amanpour – 22%
Christiane Amanpour is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished international journalists of her generation. Serving as CNN’s Chief International Anchor, she has spent decades reporting from some of the most significant political and humanitarian events around the world. Her reporting has taken her across continents, covering everything from the collapse of communist governments in Europe to conflicts in the Middle East and beyond. Amanpour’s reputation has been built on a commitment to in-depth reporting and global storytelling, allowing audiences to gain a broader understanding of international affairs. In addition to her news coverage, she has also explored social and cultural issues through documentary projects, further expanding her influence as a respected journalist and storyteller.
Christiane Amanpour 22%
Sean Hannity – 30%
Sean Hannity remains one of the most recognizable and influential personalities on cable news. As one of Fox News’ highest-rated hosts, he commands a massive audience and consistently ranks among the most-watched figures in television. However, his popularity is matched by equally strong criticism from those who disagree with his views. Survey results show that Hannity is among the most polarizing individuals in broadcast news, with many viewers expressing either deep trust or complete distrust in his reporting and commentary. There is often very little middle ground when it comes to public opinion about him. His ability to generate strong reactions from both supporters and critics has made him one of the defining media figures of modern political coverage.
Sean Hannity 30%
Zain Asher – 16%
Zain Asher, a British-Nigerian journalist working for CNN International, represents a newer generation of global news broadcasters. Although her trust ratings are lower compared to some veteran journalists, there is little evidence suggesting that controversy or scandal has played a role in those numbers. Instead, her relatively modest recognition among audiences may simply reflect the fact that she is still building her profile on the international stage. Asher has earned praise for her professionalism, strong presentation skills, and thoughtful reporting style. With more experience and increased visibility, many believe her reputation and public trust levels could continue to grow in the years ahead.
Zain Asher 16%
Steve Doocy – 18%
Steve Doocy has become a familiar face to millions of Americans through his long-running role on Fox & Friends. While the program consistently attracts strong ratings, Doocy himself has often been the subject of criticism from media commentators and political opponents. Over the years, some viewers have questioned his reporting style and opinions, while others appreciate his conversational approach and ability to connect with audiences. His career has included a mix of successful broadcasts and moments that generated criticism, particularly regarding political commentary. As a result, public opinion about Doocy remains divided, contributing to a trust rating that reflects both support and skepticism among viewers.
Steve Doocy 18%
Andrea Mitchell – 23%
Andrea Mitchell has earned a reputation as one of the most accomplished political journalists in American television. Throughout her lengthy career with NBC News, she has covered presidential administrations, international diplomacy, and some of the most important political developments of the modern era. Known for asking sharp and challenging questions, Mitchell has built a reputation for persistence and professionalism. Her extensive knowledge of government affairs and foreign policy has made her a respected presence among both colleagues and viewers. Years of hard work covering events directly from the scene have helped establish her as one of the most trusted and experienced journalists currently working in broadcast news.
Andrea Mitchell 23%
Dana Perino – 21%
Dana Perino first gained national attention as White House Press Secretary during the administration of President George W. Bush. After leaving government service, she successfully transitioned into television, becoming a prominent host and political commentator on Fox News. Her firsthand experience working at the highest levels of government provides a unique perspective that many viewers find valuable. Perino often draws upon her time inside the White House to explain political developments and policy decisions in a way that feels informed and accessible. This combination of government experience and media expertise has helped her earn a loyal audience and a solid reputation among viewers.
Dana Perino 21%
Bianna Golodryga – 15%
Bianna Golodryga serves as CNN’s senior global affairs analyst and has built a career focused on international issues and political reporting. Interestingly, despite receiving relatively low trust scores in some surveys, there is little evidence of major controversies or professional missteps that would explain the results. Golodryga has largely maintained a reputation for balanced reporting and thoughtful analysis. Some observers speculate that public perceptions may be influenced by factors unrelated to her journalism, while others suggest that lower name recognition compared to more prominent television personalities could be responsible. Whatever the reason, her career remains largely free of the controversies that often affect trust ratings in the news industry.
Bianna Golodryga 15%
Wolf Blitzer – 17%
Wolf Blitzer has spent decades as one of CNN’s most recognizable anchors, becoming synonymous with political coverage and breaking news. Known for his calm, measured delivery and straightforward interview style, Blitzer has often been criticized for being less flashy than some of his peers. While certain media critics have labeled his approach as dull or overly cautious, others see those same qualities as signs of professionalism and consistency. His focus on delivering information without generating unnecessary drama has earned both praise and criticism. Survey results reflect this divide, with nearly equal numbers of respondents expressing strong trust and strong distrust in his reporting.
Wolf Blitzer 17%
Alex Wagner – 16%
Alex Wagner has built a successful career as a television host and political commentator, earning recognition through programs such as The Circuit and other news-focused broadcasts. While her trust ratings fall toward the lower end of survey rankings, there is no clear consensus regarding why that may be the case. Wagner is often praised for her intelligence, thoughtful analysis, and ability to tackle complex political topics. Some observers have speculated that family connections to political circles may influence public perceptions, though there is little evidence to suggest those ties have directly impacted her journalism. As her career continues to evolve, public opinion regarding her credibility may shift as well.
Alex Wagner 16%
Brooke Baldwin – 16%
Brooke Baldwin spent more than a decade as one of CNN’s prominent news anchors, hosting CNN Newsroom and covering major national events. Throughout her career, she developed a reputation for energetic reporting and strong communication skills. However, a few controversial moments attracted criticism and may have influenced public perceptions of her trustworthiness. Comments she made regarding military veterans transitioning into law enforcement generated backlash, leading to a public apology. She also faced attention for ending a live interview after a guest used language she considered inappropriate. While supporters praised her professionalism, critics questioned some of these decisions, resulting in mixed opinions among viewers.
Brooke Baldwin 16%
Chuck Todd – 19%
As NBC News’ political director and longtime moderator of Meet the Press, Chuck Todd has played a central role in American political journalism. His extensive coverage of elections, government affairs, and public policy has made him a familiar face for millions of viewers. Despite holding one of the most influential positions in television news, Todd has also faced criticism from both sides of the political spectrum. Survey results reveal a nearly even split between viewers who strongly trust him and those who strongly distrust him. Nevertheless, his expertise and continued prominence ensure that he remains one of the most important voices in political broadcasting.
Chuck Todd 19%
Erin Burnett – 16%
Erin Burnett has been a key figure at CNN since joining the network in 2008, hosting her nightly program Erin Burnett OutFront. While she possesses extensive experience covering financial markets, politics, and international affairs, her trust ratings remain relatively modest compared to some of her peers. Certain controversial moments throughout her career, including comments that critics viewed as insensitive or dismissive, have occasionally drawn public scrutiny. Others have questioned whether her connections to the financial world influence her perspectives on economic issues. Even so, Burnett continues to be an influential journalist whose reporting reaches a large national audience every day.
Erin Burnett 16%
Katie Couric – 16%
Katie Couric is one of the most recognizable names in American journalism, having worked for major networks including NBC, CBS, and ABC before launching her own independent media company. Her long career has included everything from morning television and evening news broadcasts to documentaries and digital media projects. While Couric remains highly respected for many of her accomplishments, her willingness to openly discuss political issues has drawn criticism from some viewers who prefer journalists to remain publicly neutral. Accusations regarding editorial decisions and perceived political bias have also sparked debate over the years. As a result, her trust ratings tend to reflect the increasingly polarized nature of modern media audiences.
Katie Couric 16%
Fredricka Whitfield – 18%
Fredricka Whitfield has spent many years building a respected career at CNN, covering major national and international stories with professionalism and consistency. While survey data regarding her trust ratings was based on a relatively small sample size, the results suggest that public opinion toward her remains generally positive. Whitfield’s career includes extensive reporting experience and a reputation for handling complex stories with confidence. However, a few widely discussed moments have occasionally attracted criticism. One involved an interview with comedian Joan Rivers that sparked accusations of hypocrisy, while another occurred when Whitfield mistakenly described a gunman’s actions using inappropriate language before quickly issuing an apology. Despite these incidents, many viewers continue to see her as a dependable and experienced journalist.
Fredricka Whitfield 18%
George Stephanopoulos – 23%
George Stephanopoulos followed an unusual path into journalism, beginning his career in politics rather than broadcasting. After serving as a key communications adviser for President Bill Clinton and playing a major role in the White House, he decided to pursue a different challenge. That transition proved remarkably successful. Stephanopoulos quickly established himself as one of television’s most recognizable political analysts and interviewers. Today, he serves as a leading figure at ABC News and hosts the network’s flagship Sunday political program. His combination of political expertise, interviewing skills, and years of on-air experience has earned him the trust of many viewers, making him one of the most respected figures in television news.
George Stephanopoulos 23%
Gayle King – 22%
Although many people first became familiar with Gayle King through her longtime friendship with Oprah Winfrey, she has long since established her own identity as a respected journalist and television personality. As a co-host of CBS This Morning, King has demonstrated her ability to conduct compelling interviews and handle major news stories with confidence and professionalism. Her decades of experience in local and national broadcasting have helped her develop a strong rapport with audiences. High-profile interviews, including widely discussed conversations with celebrities and public figures, have showcased her ability to ask difficult questions while maintaining composure. These qualities have contributed significantly to her strong trust ratings among viewers.
Gayle King 22%
Nancy Grace – 26%
Nancy Grace has built one of the most distinctive careers in television news and legal commentary. Before entering broadcasting, she worked as a prosecutor, an experience that heavily influenced her direct and often passionate style on television. Over the years, Grace has become known for her strong opinions, energetic delivery, and focus on criminal justice issues. While her approach has occasionally generated controversy, those same qualities have also attracted a loyal audience. Interestingly, the debates surrounding her career appear to have strengthened her public profile rather than diminished it. Her presence in popular culture, combined with her legal expertise and recognizable personality, has helped make her one of the more trusted figures among certain segments of viewers.
Nancy Grace 26%
Kate Bolduan – 17%
Kate Bolduan has steadily risen through the ranks of television journalism, becoming one of CNN’s most recognizable anchors. Despite receiving trust scores that are slightly below average, her professional record remains largely free of major controversies or scandals. Bolduan made history at a young age by becoming one of the youngest anchors to hold a major morning television role, demonstrating both ambition and talent early in her career. Because she is younger than many of the industry’s veteran broadcasters, some observers believe that lower trust ratings may simply reflect lower name recognition rather than dissatisfaction with her work. As her career continues to evolve, her public profile may continue to grow.
Kate Bolduan 17%
David Muir – 28%
David Muir has emerged as one of the most trusted and recognizable news anchors in the United States. As the face of ABC World News Tonight, he reaches millions of viewers each evening and consistently leads television ratings. Muir’s calm presentation style, attention to detail, and ability to communicate complex stories clearly have made him a favorite among audiences. He has often emphasized the importance of trust in journalism, recognizing that viewers increasingly seek reliable sources of information in a rapidly changing media environment. Survey results suggest that many Americans view Muir as exactly that—a dependable journalist whose reporting they can rely on during major national and international events.
David Muir 28%
Jeanine Pirro – 14%
Jeanine Pirro brings a unique blend of legal expertise, political commentary, and broadcasting experience to her role at Fox News. A former judge and prosecutor, she built her reputation long before entering television. However, her outspoken political opinions have made her one of the more divisive personalities in cable news. Supporters appreciate her willingness to defend her viewpoints and challenge opposing arguments, while critics question whether her commentary can remain objective. This divide is reflected in her trust ratings, which remain relatively low despite her extensive professional background. Few media figures generate as strong a reaction from both supporters and detractors as Pirro.
Jeanine Pirro 14%
Hallie Jackson – 19%
Hallie Jackson has become a familiar face to NBC viewers through her political reporting and coverage of major national events. Her trust rating reflects a solid, if not exceptional, level of confidence among audiences. Jackson has steadily built a reputation for professionalism and clear reporting while largely avoiding the controversies that often affect public perceptions of journalists. Her career trajectory suggests a broadcaster who focuses on reporting the news rather than becoming the story herself. Aside from lighthearted stories about her unusual travel habits, Jackson has maintained a relatively controversy-free public image, helping her establish a reputation as a reliable and steady journalist.
Hallie Jackson 19%
Michaela Pereira – 18%
Michaela Pereira has enjoyed a diverse broadcasting career that spans both Canada and the United States. Known for her energetic personality and strong communication skills, Pereira has worked with several major networks and earned recognition through multiple Emmy Awards. Despite her accomplishments, her trust ratings remain moderate, possibly because she is less familiar to some American audiences compared to other national news figures. Nevertheless, her professional record is remarkably clean, with no significant controversies or scandals overshadowing her work. Many viewers appreciate her engaging presentation style and extensive experience across a variety of news formats.
Michaela Pereira 18%
Laura Ingraham – 20%
Laura Ingraham has built her career around direct commentary and strong political opinions, making her one of the most recognizable conservative voices in media. As host of The Ingraham Angle on Fox News, she focuses heavily on political analysis and opinion-driven content rather than traditional straight-news reporting. This approach has helped her attract a dedicated audience that values her willingness to speak candidly on controversial issues. At the same time, her outspoken style has generated criticism from those who disagree with her positions. As a result, public opinion about Ingraham remains sharply divided, with viewers often expressing either strong support or strong skepticism regarding her commentary.
Laura Ingraham 20%
Shannon Bream – 18%
Shannon Bream has established herself as a respected journalist and anchor through her work at Fox News, particularly as the host of Fox News @ Night. Her trust ratings place her near the middle of the pack, reflecting a generally favorable view among audiences. Bream is often praised for maintaining a calm and respectful tone, even when discussing contentious political issues. Unlike some television personalities who thrive on confrontation, she is known for seeking productive conversations and finding common ground with guests who hold opposing viewpoints. Her background, which includes experience working in government, also contributes to her credibility with many viewers.
Shannon Bream 18%
Rachel Maddow – 26%
Rachel Maddow is one of the most influential figures in progressive political media. Her MSNBC program consistently attracts strong ratings and has become a staple for viewers seeking liberal perspectives on current events. Maddow is known for her detailed analysis, extensive research, and willingness to openly express her opinions. While supporters view these qualities as strengths, critics argue that her commentary reflects a particular political perspective. This dynamic has made her both highly popular and highly polarizing. Survey results indicate that while many viewers place significant trust in her reporting, others remain deeply skeptical of her conclusions and viewpoints.
Rachel Maddow 26%
Jeff Glor – 17%
Jeff Glor built a respected career at CBS News through years of reporting and anchoring major broadcasts. Although his trust ratings fall slightly below average, there is little evidence of any major controversies that would explain the result. Glor has reported from around the world and earned praise for his professionalism and journalistic skills. His departure from the CBS Evening News anchor chair was largely viewed as a business decision by the network rather than a reflection of his performance. Because of this, many media observers continue to regard him as a capable journalist whose lower trust score may simply stem from lower public visibility compared to more prominent television personalities.
Jeff Glor 17%
Lisa Ling – 15%
Lisa Ling has carved out a unique place in journalism through her focus on human-interest stories, social issues, and documentary-style reporting. As host of This Is Life with Lisa Ling, she has explored a wide range of topics that often receive little mainstream attention. While her trust ratings appear relatively low, there is little indication that controversy or professional misconduct is responsible. Instead, the results may reflect limited name recognition among broader audiences or differing reactions to her outspoken views on social issues. Regardless of public opinion polls, Ling remains respected for her willingness to tackle complex and often sensitive subjects.
Lisa Ling 15%
Harris Faulkner – 24%
Harris Faulkner has spent years establishing herself as one of Fox News’ most respected anchors. Her strong trust rating reflects both her professional accomplishments and her ability to remain composed under pressure. Throughout her career, Faulkner has earned multiple journalism awards, including several Emmys, while maintaining a reputation for fairness and professionalism. Many viewers appreciate her balanced interviewing style and her focus on delivering information clearly and efficiently. Despite working within a network that often attracts political criticism, Faulkner has managed to earn trust from a broad range of viewers, making her one of the more highly regarded figures in cable news.
Harris Faulkner 24%
Norah O’Donnell – 18%
Norah O’Donnell has become one of the leading figures at CBS News through her roles as anchor of CBS Evening News and correspondent for 60 Minutes. Her career has been marked by serious reporting, investigative journalism, and a commitment to factual accuracy. Often described as a traditional journalist, O’Donnell focuses on presenting information without excessive commentary or personal opinion. While some viewers find this approach less exciting than modern opinion-driven news formats, others see it as an essential part of trustworthy journalism. Her trust ratings reflect this divide, with many appreciating her commitment to neutrality and professionalism.
Norah O’Donnell 18%
Katy Tur – 17%
Katy Tur has gained recognition through her reporting on major political events, particularly her extensive coverage of the 2016 presidential campaign. As an MSNBC anchor and bestselling author, she has developed a strong public profile despite being relatively early in her broadcasting career compared to many veteran journalists. Some viewers may view her political reporting as evidence of bias, while others praise her willingness to ask difficult questions and challenge public figures. Because she is still building her long-term reputation, her trust ratings may continue to evolve as audiences become more familiar with her work and journalistic approach.
Katy Tur 17%
Joe Scarborough – 22%
Joe Scarborough brings a unique perspective to television news thanks to his background in politics. Before becoming a media personality, he served several terms in the U.S. House of Representatives, giving him firsthand experience with the political system he now analyzes on television. As co-host of MSNBC’s Morning Joe, Scarborough is known for his strong opinions, energetic discussions, and willingness to debate controversial topics. His political experience lends additional credibility to his commentary, and many viewers value the insights he offers based on his time in public office. These factors have helped him maintain a strong level of trust among a substantial portion of the audience.
Joe Scarborough 22%
Robin Roberts – 28%
Robin Roberts stands among the most trusted personalities in television news. As a key figure on ABC’s Good Morning America, she has built a powerful connection with viewers through her warmth, professionalism, and inspiring personal story. Survey results place her near the top of trust rankings, particularly among younger adult viewers. Roberts’ ability to balance serious journalism with genuine empathy has helped her become one of the most beloved figures in broadcasting. Whether covering major news stories or conducting personal interviews, she consistently demonstrates authenticity and credibility, qualities that continue to resonate with audiences across the country.
Robin Roberts 28%
Natalie Morales-Rhodes – 18%
Natalie Morales-Rhodes has developed a steady and dependable broadcasting career through her work with NBC News and other television programs. While she may not enjoy the same level of recognition as some of the industry’s biggest stars, she has earned respect for her professionalism and consistency. Her trust ratings reflect a career largely free from controversy, marked instead by gradual growth and reliable performance. Morales-Rhodes has demonstrated versatility across a variety of news and entertainment formats, and many observers believe she still has plenty of opportunities ahead to further strengthen her reputation and expand her influence in television journalism.
Natalie Morales Rhodes 18%
Lester Holt – 32%
Lester Holt earned the distinction of being the most trusted news anchor in the survey, with 32 percent of respondents saying they place a high level of trust in his reporting. After stepping into the role of anchor for NBC Nightly News following Brian Williams’ departure, Holt quickly established himself as one of the most respected figures in broadcast journalism. His straightforward delivery and commitment to presenting facts without excessive commentary have helped him stand out in a media landscape increasingly dominated by opinion-driven programming. Viewers often praise Holt for maintaining a calm, balanced approach regardless of the story being covered. Reflecting on his ranking, Holt emphasized that trust is the foundation of journalism and described earning the public’s confidence as one of the greatest honors a broadcaster can receive. His top placement highlights the value many Americans still place on traditional, fact-focused reporting.
Lester Holt 32%
Don Lemon – 25%
Don Lemon spent many years as one of CNN’s most recognizable personalities, rising from correspondent roles to become the host of his own primetime program, CNN Tonight. As one of the most prominent African-American anchors in cable news, Lemon built a substantial audience and became a major voice in discussions surrounding politics, race, and current events. His outspoken commentary and willingness to address controversial topics helped boost his popularity, but those same qualities also made him a polarizing figure. While many viewers appreciated his direct approach and candid opinions, others disagreed strongly with his viewpoints. Survey results reflected this divide, with a significant portion of respondents expressing skepticism about his reporting. Lemon’s career illustrates how modern television personalities can simultaneously attract loyal supporters and vocal critics.
Don Lemon 25%
Mika Brzezinski – 23%
Mika Brzezinski has become one of the most influential voices in morning television through her role as co-host of MSNBC’s Morning Joe. Known for her sharp political commentary and willingness to challenge guests and public officials, Brzezinski has never shied away from expressing her opinions. Alongside her husband and co-host Joe Scarborough, she helps shape daily conversations about politics and national affairs. Her direct style has earned praise from supporters who appreciate her honesty and confidence, while critics often accuse her of being too opinionated. Brzezinski has repeatedly stated that she is not concerned about negative reactions and prefers to focus on delivering commentary she believes is important. This unapologetic approach has contributed to both her popularity and her divisive reputation among viewers.
Mika Brzezinski 23%
Chris Matthews – 22%
Chris Matthews became a household name through his long-running political talk show Hardball, which remained a fixture on television for more than two decades. Before that, he had already established a successful media career through other television projects and political commentary. Matthews developed a reputation for energetic interviews, spirited debates, and a fast-paced style that often generated strong reactions from audiences. While many viewers admired his passion and deep knowledge of politics, others found his approach overly aggressive or confrontational. In the later stages of his career, allegations of misconduct and a controversial on-air incident brought additional scrutiny. These developments ultimately led to his departure from television, but his influence on political broadcasting remains significant.
Chris Matthews 22%
Tucker Carlson – 21%
Tucker Carlson became one of the most watched personalities in cable news, building a massive audience through his highly opinionated primetime program on Fox News. Known for his sharp critiques of political leaders, media organizations, and government institutions, Carlson developed a loyal following that consistently delivered strong ratings. However, his style also generated substantial criticism from opponents who challenged both his viewpoints and his methods of commentary. Survey results revealed that trust in Carlson was far from universal, with only a modest percentage of respondents expressing strong confidence in him. Despite these numbers, his audience remained remarkably large, proving that popularity and trust do not always move in the same direction in today’s media environment.
Tucker Carlson 21%
Craig Melvin – 21%
Craig Melvin has steadily risen through the ranks of broadcast journalism, earning praise for his professionalism, enthusiasm, and relatable personality. After building a strong reputation at MSNBC, he expanded his role and eventually became a prominent figure on NBC’s Today. Melvin’s approachable demeanor and ability to connect with both guests and viewers have helped him develop a loyal audience. Unlike some news personalities who thrive on controversy, Melvin is generally known for maintaining a balanced and friendly style. His growing popularity and increasing visibility on national television suggest that he remains one of the industry’s rising stars, with many viewers appreciating his combination of credibility and warmth.
Craig Melvin 21%
Chris Wallace – 22%
Chris Wallace has long been regarded as one of the most respected interviewers in American television news. Throughout his career, he has worked for several major networks and held some of the most prestigious positions in broadcasting. Whether serving as host of Fox News Sunday or contributing to other high-profile programs, Wallace earned a reputation for asking challenging questions regardless of a guest’s political affiliation. This commitment to tough but fair journalism allowed him to gain credibility across ideological divides, something relatively rare in modern media. His extensive résumé, combined with decades of experience and professionalism, has helped him remain one of the most trusted figures in political reporting.
Chris Wallace 22%
Harris Faulkner – 24%
Harris Faulkner distinguished herself within Fox News through a reporting style that emphasized composure, professionalism, and thoughtful commentary. While she first gained widespread attention as a panelist on Outnumbered, Faulkner quickly established an identity separate from the program’s often lively debates. Viewers responded positively to her measured approach and ability to discuss complicated issues without becoming overly confrontational. Her years of experience, multiple journalism awards, and strong interviewing skills have all contributed to her reputation as one of the network’s most trusted personalities. Survey results reflected that trust, placing her among the highest-rated female anchors in the study.
Harris Faulkner 24%
Juan Williams – 19%
Juan Williams occupies a unique position in cable news as a political analyst whose viewpoints often differ from many of the colleagues around him. Although he has written for major publications such as The Washington Post, The New York Times, and The Wall Street Journal, Williams became particularly well known through his appearances on Fox News. As one of the few prominent Democrats regularly featured on the network, he frequently provided alternative perspectives during political discussions. While some viewers appreciated his willingness to challenge prevailing opinions, others remained unconvinced by his arguments. As a result, survey results showed a notable level of distrust among respondents. Even so, Williams continues to play an important role in bringing ideological diversity to political commentary programs.
Juan Williams 19%