The Mass Media and Politics The mass media possesses a great deal of influence in society and politics in the United States. Newspapers, radio, magazines and television are able to use their own judgment when reporting current events. The power of the mass media is an asset to the government in some instances and a stumbling block in others. Recent technology and regulations given to the mass media have improved the means by which the public can get information. The final say in what goes into a story, however, belongs to the reporter alone. His opinions and biases are often a main part of the news the public receives. The mass media is