NAB Launches Election Preparedness Initiative to Help Broadcasters

Election
(Image credit: DirecTV)

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) has announced a sweeping election preparedness initiative designed to provide broadcasters with the critical resources, tools and training needed to navigate the complexities of the 2024 election cycle. 

“This is a critical time for our nation and our democracy. Broadcast journalists serve a pivotal role in educating voters on the candidates, the issues and the electoral process, and NAB is here to support them in these efforts,” said NAB president and CEO Curtis LeGeyt. “As bad actors increasingly use advanced technologies to create and spread disinformation, the role of local broadcasters as custodians of the truth has never been more important.”

The NAB described its election preparedness initiative as being built around these three core elements:

  • Digital Resources: NAB's Election Toolkit highlights voter engagement strategies, trust-building with audiences, field safety and best practices from leading broadcasters. NAB’s Hispanic GOTV Toolkit provides targeted resources aimed at increasing voter participation and engagement within the Hispanic community. These and other tools can be found on the Broadcast Resource Hub.
  • Virtual Learning Event: On September 9, NAB, in partnership with the Radio Television Digital News Association (RTDNA), will host a free online session, Building and Maintaining Trust in Election Coverage: An NAB Virtual Learning Event, to equip broadcasters with strategies for building trust with their audiences and combatting disinformation during the 2024 election season. Learn more and RSVP here.
  • Election Coverage Summit at NAB Show New York: On October 10, NAB will host an in-person summit at NAB Show New York inside the Javits Center just ahead of the pivotal 2024 elections. Key topics will include improving trust in political coverage with a deep dive into RTDNA’s research and best practices to address skepticism about media bias. The summit will also tackle ensuring verified news in the age of AI and social media, discussing how stations are combating misinformation and the rise of deep fakes. Also important is how journalists prepare their audience for the aftermath of the election and stay safe while covering political events. The Election Coverage Summit is an essential forum for those committed to delivering trusted news during this critical time. Register today for NAB Show New York and use promo code ELECTION1 to get a free Exhibits Pass and complimentary access to the Summit. Members of the media covering NAB Show New York can attend the event free of charge. 
George Winslow

George Winslow is the senior content producer for TV Tech. He has written about the television, media and technology industries for nearly 30 years for such publications as Broadcasting & Cable, Multichannel News and TV Tech. Over the years, he has edited a number of magazines, including Multichannel News International and World Screen, and moderated panels at such major industry events as NAB and MIP TV. He has published two books and dozens of encyclopedia articles on such subjects as the media, New York City history and economics.