Meaning: This quote by journalist Bob Schieffer reflects the changing landscape of news consumption and the evolving role of traditional news media in the digital age. In this quote, Schieffer highlights the shift in audience behavior and the challenges that journalists face in delivering news to an audience that is already well-informed through various other sources.

In the past, the evening news served as a primary source of information for many people. However, with the advent of the internet, social media, and 24-hour cable news networks, the way people consume news has undergone a significant transformation. Today, individuals have access to news updates in real-time through a variety of digital platforms, and this continuous flow of information has reshaped their expectations and habits when it comes to staying informed.

Schieffer's assertion that people "basically already know what the news is" when they turn on the evening news underscores the idea that the traditional role of television news as the primary source of information has shifted. Instead of relying solely on the evening news for the latest updates, people now have access to news through a multitude of channels throughout the day. This shift has implications for the way journalists approach their work and the way news organizations deliver information to their audiences.

The journalist's statement also speaks to the need for traditional news outlets to adapt to this new reality. With audiences being exposed to news from multiple sources before tuning into the evening news, journalists face the challenge of providing value-added content that goes beyond simply reporting the facts. This may involve offering in-depth analysis, context, or perspectives that are not readily available through other news channels. In essence, the role of the evening news and traditional journalism has become more about providing insight and interpretation rather than just delivering the news itself.

Moreover, Schieffer's comment about the audience's prior exposure to news from radio, the internet, and cable companies emphasizes the need for journalists to be aware of the diverse sources from which their audience gathers information. This awareness can influence the editorial decisions made by news organizations and individual journalists, as they seek to provide content that complements and expands upon what the audience has already encountered elsewhere.

In the context of the digital age, the quote also sheds light on the complex interplay between traditional and new media. While the internet and social media have revolutionized the way news is disseminated and consumed, traditional media outlets still play a crucial role in shaping public discourse and providing a trusted source of information. By recognizing the changing behavior of news consumers, journalists and news organizations can adapt their strategies to remain relevant and impactful in an increasingly crowded media landscape.

In conclusion, Bob Schieffer's quote captures the evolving dynamics of news consumption and the challenges faced by journalists in the digital age. It underscores the need for traditional news outlets to adapt to a more informed audience and to provide content that adds value beyond simple dissemination of information. As technology continues to reshape the media landscape, the role of journalists and news organizations in shaping public understanding and discourse will continue to evolve, requiring ongoing adaptation and innovation.