TV networks are scaling back their political convention coverage

The New York Times

With the "quadrennial TV spectacle" of the Democratic and Republican conventions shrinking due to the coronavirus pandemic, the TV networks are reducing their coverage plans. "Many TV networks are now planning to keep correspondents stationed outside the convention venues, where the risk of transmission is lower," says Michael M. Grynbaum. "Instead of sitting in custom-built skybox studios, many anchors and commentators will offer analysis from desks in Washington and New York — or from their home quarantines. In one scenario floated by network executives, reporters could avoid entering the venue completely...Networks typically fly hundreds of crew members to convention cities, where they construct elaborate sets and maintain an on-the-ground newsroom, complete with well-stocked snack spreads and makeup trailers. In a pandemic, those plans have been mostly abandoned. Even basic transportation is proving to be a headache."