CNN Drops Behind Newsmax in Ratings After Trump Town Hall; How to Stream Conservative News Outlet

When CNN made the decision to host a town hall meeting featuring former President Donald Trump on May 10, it became a lightning rod for controversy. Viewers feared that moderator Kaitlan Collins would not be able to keep a reign on the ex-president, and those fears were largely vindicated as Trump repeated false claims about the 2020 election, made unfounded claims about abortion, and gave statements about E. Jean Carroll that many considered defamatory, even as her successful lawsuit for sexual assault and defamation against him was completed in the courts.

CNN is now seeing the results of hosting that event, and the ratings have not been kind. The Wrap reports data from Nielsen which indicates that while CNN saw big ratings during the town hall itself, its viewership cratered in the following days. By Friday, May 12, those ratings had plummeted to fourth place among cable news outlets, behind Fox News, MSNBC, and the hard-right outlet Newsmax.

The event was criticized by some CNN representatives, and defended by others. CNN media reporter Oliver Darcy said in his “Reliable Sources” newsletter “It’s hard to see how America was served by the spectacle of lies that aired on CNN Wednesday evening.”

But the network’s CEO Chris Licht defended the move to air the town hall, saying on Thursday, May 11, “I absolutely unequivocally believe America was served very well by what we did last night.”

If you’re curious about Newsmax — or are considering cord-cutting but hope to be able to watch the channel after you leave cable or satellite behind — there are a few different options to consider. Check below for more information!

How to Stream Newsmax on DIRECTV STREAM

There are three live TV streaming services that carry Newsmax: DIRECTV STREAM, Fubo, and Sling TV. DIRECTV STREAM is our top choice because, in addition to Newsmax, the service offers more top cable entertainment and news channels than any other. It also carries a wide array of national and regional sports channels, so whether you want to see the MLB regular season or the NBA or [NHL playoffs], you’re all set. Prices start at $74.99 per month after a five-day free trial, but for a limited time, new DIRECTV STREAM users get $10 off their bill for the first three months of their service.

How to Stream Newsmax on Fubo

Fubo is a good choice to stream Newsmax, especially for sports fans. This service carries Bally Sports regional sports networks, and gives users the chance to watch a ton of national sports channels, such as MLB Network, NBA TV, NHL Network, and NFL RedZone during football season. It offers a seven-day free trial, after which plans start at $85.98 including regional sports network fees.

How to Stream Newsmax on Sling TV

Sling TV customers can also access Newsmax, though they’ll have to grab an optional channel add-on pack to get it. Newsmax is part of the Sling News Extra add-on, which can be purchased with any Sling plan. Sling TV normally starts at $40 per month for its Orange or Blue plans, but right now new customers can get $10 off their first month, plus a free Amazon Fire TV stick just for signing up.