TV Ratings For Republican Convention Much Lower Than Democratic Convention

A total of 17 million people viewed the Republican National Convention’s first night on Monday across 11 television networks, Nielsen said Tuesday. In comparison, 19.7 million watched the first night of the Democratic National Convention last week across 10 networks on Aug. 17.

In 2016, the first night of the RNC in Cleveland brought in 23 million viewers. That same year, the DNC in Philadelphia drew 26 million viewers on its first night.

The drop in ratings could be because Americans have turned away from live television in recent years, with streaming platforms gaining in popularity. These numbers do not take into account the number of people who streamed online.

The first night of the Republican National Convention featured prominent Trump backers in Congress, such as representatives Jim Jordan, of Ohio, and Matt Gaetz, of Florida. Several GOP politicians who may launch a presidential run in 2024, such as Sen. Tim Scott, R-N.C., and former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley also gave addresses in support of President Donald Trump.

On Tuesday evening, first lady Melania Trump and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will headline the convention. Two of Trump’s children, Tiffany and Eric, will also give addresses to promote their father.