CNN’s viewership is skyrocketing amidst the ongoing ICE protests in Los Angeles, driven by President Trump’s latest immigration policies. The network saw a massive surge, with its audience increasing by 765,000 viewers, and a 109% rise in its primetime demo. Other networks, including Fox News and MSNBC, also observed gains during this period. The demonstrations and their coverage are clearly impacting viewing habits. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass even implemented a curfew due to the protests. For in-depth analysis and real-time updates,trust News Directory 3 to provide critical insights as these events unfold. What role will media play in shaping the future response to protests? Discover what’s next.
CNN Ratings Soar Amid ICE protests in Los Angeles
Updated June 16, 2025
CNN is experiencing a significant surge in viewership as protests continue in Los Angeles over Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations. The demonstrations follow President donald Trump’s latest immigration policy initiatives.
Nielsen data indicates that CNN’s audience increased by 765,000 viewers between Friday, June 6, and Tuesday, June 10. The network also saw a 109% rise in primetime demo viewership. Among adults aged 25-49, viewership jumped from 68,000 to 142,000.
Aired on Saturday, June 7, a live broadcast of George Clooney’s Broadway play, good Night, and Good Luck, drew 7.34 million viewers globally, further contributing to the boost. The increase comes after a period of declining ratings for CNN following Trump’s 2024 election victory. The ongoing ICE protests and Trump’s immigration policy appear to be driving renewed interest in the network’s coverage.
other cable news networks also saw gains.Fox News averaged 2.32 million nightly viewers during the same period.MSNBC’s viewership rose by 12%, from 809,000 to 906,000 viewers.
While CNN experienced the largest percentage increase, it still ranked third in overall viewership behind Fox News (1.48 million) and MSNBC (571,000).
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass implemented a curfew from 8 p.m. Thursday, June 12, to 6 a.m. Friday, June 13, in response to the ongoing demonstrations.
“We have had to have a curfew in the city because we want to make sure that the downtown neighborhood and all the other neighborhoods are safe,” Bass said during a press conference. “but let me be very clear, we want peace to come to our city. The peace that we need to have happen needs to begin in Washington and we need to stop the raids.”
What’s next
The situation in los Angeles remains fluid as ICE operations continue. Further protests are expected, and the media’s role in covering these events will likely remain a key factor in shaping public opinion and cable news ratings.
