Home
← Back to Home

How Accurate Is Associated Press? Bias Score, Reliability, and Source Quality

3 min read
Last Updated: January 2026

Associated Press Overview and Political Bias

The Associated Press is widely viewed as a centrist, factual source. However, some conservative critics suggest it displays a subtle liberal bias in story selection and framing. Conversely, some international observers argue that its reporting occasionally mirrors Western institutional perspectives, particularly in its coverage of global geopolitical conflicts and economic policies.

Standpoint Assessment
Overall political leaning Center
Estimated number of readers 100,000,000
Israel support Neutral
Use of loaded / emotional language Low
Target Audience Mass market

Associated Press History

Founded in 1846 by five New York City newspapers to share the costs of reporting on the Mexican-American War, the AP is one of the world's oldest news agencies. It pioneered the use of the telegraph and has grown into a primary source for global news, winning numerous Pulitzers.

World News Map

News Today interactive world news map

Who owns Associated Press?

The Associated Press is a non-profit news cooperative headquartered in New York City. It is owned by its contributing American newspapers and broadcast stations. Funding is primarily derived from licensing fees paid by these member organizations and other global media outlets for access to its wire service content.

Similar newspapers