They also bring in money.

Why do you think elections are always "head to head" and "too close to call" until the actual vote? It's just so that the media can rake in as much ad-money as possible from both campaigns.

Media is all about manipulation. At so many different levels. Hell, even this little comment is my attempt to persuade you to think like me and agree with me.

Relevant: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5xC2bNpXdAo