Horse race journalism refers to a style of reporting that focuses on the competitive aspects of political campaigns, likening them to a race. Instead of emphasizing policy discussions or the details of candidates’ platforms, horse race journalism typically highlights who is ahead in polls, who has raised the most money, or the strategies candidates are using to win.
This approach tends to prioritize the drama and spectacle of the campaign rather than the substantive issues at stake. Critics argue that horse race journalism can lead to a shallow understanding of politics, as it often overlooks important policy debates and the implications of candidates’ positions on various issues. Essentially, it turns political contests into a game to be won or lost, which may leave voters less informed about their choices.