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Fact check: Is msn bias against conservatives?

Checked on August 28, 2025

1. Summary of the results

Based on the available analyses, MSN does exhibit a measurable left-leaning bias that could be perceived as bias against conservatives. Multiple independent sources confirm this assessment:

  • Ad Fontes Media consistently rates MSN with a bias score of -3.96, placing it on the left side of the political spectrum [1]
  • One analysis specifically identifies MSN News as having a "strong Left-Center bias" with most stories sourcing from Left-Center outlets [2]
  • The reliability scores are concerning, with MSN receiving a 26.72 reliability rating indicating "Mixed Reliability/Opinion OR Other Issues" [1]

Reddit users report experiencing both left and right-leaning bias perceptions, suggesting the platform's algorithm may amplify divisive content regardless of political orientation [3].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

The original question lacks several important contextual factors:

  • MSN operates as a news aggregator rather than original content creator - the bias may reflect their source selection rather than editorial stance
  • The bias score of -3.96, while left-leaning, falls within the "Middle" category according to Ad Fontes Media's classification system [1]
  • User perception of bias can be influenced by algorithmic content curation that prioritizes engagement over balanced representation [3]
  • Microsoft, MSN's parent company, would benefit financially from maintaining broad appeal across political spectrums to maximize advertising revenue and user engagement
  • Conservative media organizations and political figures benefit from portraying mainstream platforms as biased as it drives audiences toward explicitly conservative alternatives and fundraising efforts

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original question contains an inherent assumption that may not reflect the complete picture:

  • The question presupposes bias exists without acknowledging the complexity of news aggregation - MSN's left-leaning tendency may result from sourcing patterns rather than intentional conservative targeting
  • The framing ignores that bias perception is often subjective - what conservatives perceive as bias, others may view as factual reporting [3]
  • The question doesn't account for the distinction between editorial bias and algorithmic bias in content presentation and comment systems
  • Missing consideration that "bias against conservatives" implies intentional discrimination rather than the measured left-center positioning that multiple sources document
Want to dive deeper?
What are the criteria for evaluating media bias in news outlets like MSN?
How does MSN's ownership structure influence its editorial stance on conservative issues?
Can MSN's fact-checking practices be seen as biased against conservative viewpoints?
Which conservative news outlets have accused MSN of bias, and what are their arguments?
How does MSN's coverage of conservative politicians compare to its coverage of liberal politicians?