Between June and August, rural Americans were closely following world events with the major networks and cable news outlets scoring the lion’s share of viewing according to the Summer 2026 Rural Channel Stats report.
With the collaboration of Innovative Systems MG-TV video operators across the U.S., thousands of households are being counted in this ongoing research project. The data collected in this study is anonymous viewership information based on Set Top Box, consumer data, and each reporting service provider does not have access to individual viewing information.
Less than 10 rating points separated the top 3 channels.
- CBS 36.57
- NBC 34.95
- ABC 29.84
Other Highlights of the Summer 2026 Channel Stats Report:
- News-oriented networks account for a substantial share of viewing preferences. Fox News Channel (23.32) ranks as the highest cable network overall.
- The strong performance of regional sports suggests local team coverage resonates more than national sports offerings with Regional Sports Networks (8.93) scoring a top 10 rating.
- Faith and Values-Based Programming continues to perform well led by INSP ranking sixth overall at 10.96.
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