In the final poll of a series measuring perceptions of media bias, the Associated Press, local television stations, MSNBC, and CNBC are all perceived as tilting to the left when reporting the news.

Earlier releases showed that Americans tend to believe the major broadcast networks, CNN, and NPR have a liberal bias. Fox News is seen as having a bias in the other direction. In print, the New York Times, Washington Post, and local newspapers were also seen as having a liberal bias.

Americans are evenly divided as to whether or not the “Fairness Doctrine” should be restored. That regulation required broadcast outlets to present alternative viewpoints. Thirty-four percent (34%) of Americans want the Fairness Doctrine expanded and applied to web sites as well as broadcast outlets.

Interest in the Fairness Doctrine was revived on Capitol Hill after public opinion overwhelmed the preferences of the Senate on the immigration debate. Some legislators advocating “comprehensive” reform blamed talk radio for the defeat of their proposal.

The current survey finds that 30% of American adults believe the Associated Press has a liberal bias and only 12% believe it leans the other way. Local television news is viewed as having a liberal bias by 30% and a conservative bias by 17%. MSNBC is seen as being a bit more to the left—33% say it has a liberal bias and 13% say the opposite. For CNBC, 29% say it has a liberal bias and 14% say a conservative bias.

Thirty-seven percent (37%) say local television stations deliver news without bias while 36% say the same for the Associated Press.

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