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Boston, October 26, 2012: The major US TV networks have continued to report less negatively on the economy through October. On economic issues and policies, Romney maintains more favorable ratings, according to Media Tenor International.

In October, Obama received heavy criticisms from most of the major networks. “Obama has factors in the media working both for him and against him,” says Kate Dinota, analyst at Media Tenor. “The overall tone on the economy, though still quite negative, is improving, keeping the CCI stable. That traditionally works in the incumbent´s favor. On the other hand, the media continues to report more negatively on Obama than on his challenger when associating the candidates with specific policies.”

Romney also received criticisms on his economic policies and the current situation, though slightly less so than the president. He also received less criticism from the major US print news.

In TV coverage of the swing states, Romney also leads with more positive ratings overall. “Obama holds a slight rating advantage in Ohio, and with that state holding so much importance in the election results, it´s an important factor to watch,” notes Dinota.

Foreign affairs has received as much, and slightly more, coverage than the economy this election season. In the wake of the attack on the US consulate in Benghazi, the media has refocused attention on the subject. “With this much coverage on international issues, we can´t rule the possibility that foreign policy might also influence voters at the polls,” Dinota says.

The polls have tightened as the media reports less drastically in Romney´s favor. Romney now maintains only a slight lead in the Gallup poll.

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