Part 2/10:
Many mainstream outlets have been quick to trumpet a resurgence in viewership for CNN and MSNBC, citing slight upticks during tumultuous political or international events. For example, during a recent government shutdown, networks claimed their audiences were swelling, particularly among federal workers furloughed at home. However, a closer look at the data reveals that these increases are minor, often just a few percentage points, and unlikely to be sustainable.