Fifty-five percent (55%) of U.S. voters believe the media tries to make the economy seem worse that it is. That’s an increase from 46% in November.

The latest Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey found that just 23% believe the nation’s professional reporters and commentators try to present an accurate picture of the economy. Thirteen (13%) believe the media tries to make the economy seem better than it really is.

Sixty-five percent (65%) of Republicans say the media paints a bleaker picture of the economy than the facts merit. That view is shared by 44% of Democrats and 59% of those not affiliated with either major party.

Fifty-eight percent (58%) of all voters believe the media plays a Very Important role in shaping perceptions of the economy. Another 27% say their role is Somewhat Important. These figures are slightly lower than the number who believe the president’s comments play a significant role in shaping perceptions of the economy.

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Data from the Rasmussen Consumer Index shows that workplace conditions play a major role on perceptions of the economy. Those who work for firms that are laying people off have a much more pessimistic view of the economy than those who work for firms that are hiring.

The media industry has been in serious economic trouble for some time now, with media owners posting major losses, newspapers closing and many journalists being laid off or bought out. However, voters are evenly divided as to whether or not media industry troubles are causing journalists to be more negative in their coverage. Thirty-four percent (34%) say yes, 35% say no, and 31% are not sure.

The majority perception that the media isn't painting a straight picture of the economy matches similar Rasmussen Reports findings about global warming and political coverage. Earlier this month, 54% of voters said the news media makes global warming appear worse than it really is.

Just before last November's election, 68% of voters said most reporters try to help the candidate they want to win, and 51% believed they were trying to help Democrat Barack Obama.

Just seven percent (7%) thought they were trying to help his Republican opponent, John McCain. The number of those suspecting a tilt toward Obama had grown since June.

But while some liberal congressional Democrats would like to restore the so-called Fairness Doctrine because of their concern about the conservative tilt of talk radio, just 38% of voters think the government should require all radio stations to offer equal amounts of conservative and liberal political commentary. President Obama signaled several days ago that he opposes bringing back the Fairness Doctrine.

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