How local news is changing — and why it matters

The loss of local news has an insidious effect on democracy.

Why it matters: The trend is "contributing to polarization, [and a] decrease in voting and government accountability," the nonprofit American Journalism Project found through an analysis of independent research.

Yes, but: Groups like the Knight Foundation see reasons for hope as newer journalism outlets take hold — some of which are increasingly funded by philanthropy.

Driving the news: A declining share of adults are following the news closely, and traditional media audiences for newspapers, TV and radio are shrinking, according to a recent Pew Research Center study.

By the numbers: Nearly 90% of adults say they often or sometimes get news from a smartphone, computer or tablet, per Pew.

• That's compared to around 65% for television, 42% for radio and 25% for print publications.

Stunning stat: There are roughly 6,000 newspapers left in the U.S., down from 8,891 in 2005, according to the Medill Local News Initiative at Northwestern University.

Threat level: More than 200 counties in the U.S. now have zero news outlets, per Medill's report.

What they're saying: Having a reporter monitor city hall, police or local businesses serves the public good by promoting civic engagement and helping communities make better decisions, according to Knight.

What we're watching: Axios' growth to 30 local markets in the last four years — with more on the way — is just one example of new investments in local journalism across the country.

• A collection of more than two dozen philanthropic groups, including Knight, pledged more than $500 million last year to a new initiative that has committed to support local journalism across the country.

The bottom line: Support local news.

• Our Axios Local membership program is just one way to do so.