(Scypre.com) – Fox News eclipsed its cable rivals during the Republican National Convention, achieving record-breaking primetime numbers highlighted by former President Donald Trump’s much-anticipated keynote address. According to Nielsen ratings figures, Fox News drew a staggering 10 million viewers during the 10 p.m. hour when Trump took the stage in Milwaukee, marking his first public appearance since narrowly escaping an assassination attempt.
The 92-minute speech by Trump capped off what Fox News declared as the highest-rated single night of convention coverage in the history of cable news. Throughout its primetime block, Fox averaged 9 million viewers, including 1.6 million in the coveted 25-54 age demographic, solidifying its status as the go-to network for conservative viewership.
In stark contrast, CNN managed a mere fraction of Fox’s audience during Trump’s address, pulling in only 2.1 million viewers. MSNBC, not far behind, garnered 1.2 million viewers in the same timeframe, underscoring a significant viewership gap between the right-leaning Fox and its left-leaning competitors during the pivotal convention moments.
Criticism has been directed at MSNBC for its unconventional coverage setup, with top anchors like Rachel Maddow and Jen Psaki reporting from the network’s Manhattan headquarters, using a large LED screen that simulated a presence at Milwaukee’s Fiserv Forum where the convention was held.
Trump’s speech itself was noted for its departure from a prepared script, as reported by The Post, where he opted for a more “personal” address, scrapping an earlier draft. His appearance at the convention was particularly striking given the recent incident where he sustained an injury during a rally, being shot in the ear less than 48 hours before his convention appearance.
Fox News’ robust viewership didn’t wane throughout the convention’s four nights. The network’s coverage on the first night, which featured Trump’s dramatic entrance with a bandaged ear, drew over 6.9 million viewers at the 10 p.m. hour. In comparison, MSNBC and CNN trailed with 1.3 million and 1.1 million viewers respectively during the same period.
On subsequent nights, Fox continued to draw substantial viewership, with over 5 million tuning in during the second night and a remarkable 7 million on the third night, highlighted by Ohio Sen. JD Vance’s acceptance speech as vice presidential nominee.
This year’s Republican National Convention unfolded against a backdrop of mounting pressure on President Joe Biden, following a lackluster debate performance against Trump and increasing doubts about his ability to secure victory in the upcoming election rematch. As the conventions wrapped up, Fox News emerged not only as a ratings powerhouse but also as a critical platform shaping public discourse and political narratives leading into the highly anticipated November elections.