KDKA Radio On-Demand
KDKA Radio On-Demand offers a centrist perspective with a focus on local and national policy issues, often highlighting crime and economic concerns.
What This Tone Is Based On
The tone scores on this page come from analyzing how this show covers each political figure it mentions. Below is the breakdown of how many of those reads were positive, neutral, or negative.
Net media tone Neutral across 187 figure-in-episode tone reads (not audience/impressions).
How KDKA Radio On-Demand Differs from Other Shows
Compared to 120 outlets · Sep 2025–Aug 2026Overall this show runs more favorable than the rest of the media — mean tone -0.02 vs the media's -0.15.
- John Fetterman+0.14more favorable vs. other showsShow↑ +0.19Other shows↗ +0.0513 eps
- Mark Kelly+0.13more favorable vs. other showsShow→ 0.00Other shows↘ -0.1314 eps
- Josh Shapiro+0.10more favorable vs. other showsShow↑ +0.12Other shows→ +0.0210 eps
Delta = this show's tone toward the figure minus the average across all 120 other tracked outlets that covered them ≥3 times, Sep 2025–Aug 2026.
Positive = friendlier here; negative = harsher.
Editorial Identity
The editorial fingerprint of this center local news show — who it elevates, who it goes after, and where it breaks from the pack.
KDKA Radio On-Demand is a center-leaning local news program that emphasizes policy discussions, particularly around crime, public safety, and economic issues. The show maintains a relatively neutral tone towards most political figures, with slight leanings in favor of local figures like John Fetterman. It often covers topics such as federal spending and taxes, reflecting a focus on fiscal responsibility and public safety concerns. The show operates with a balanced approach, providing a platform for diverse viewpoints while maintaining a local focus in the Pittsburgh area.
The show tends to cover Gavin Newsom more favorably than the media average, indicating a possible appreciation for his policies or leadership style. It also shows a slight positive bias towards local figures like John Fetterman and Josh Shapiro, reflecting a supportive stance towards Pennsylvania's political landscape.
KDKA Radio On-Demand is notably critical of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., covering him more harshly than the media average. The show also scrutinizes Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and J.B. Pritzker, often in the context of policy disagreements or perceived political missteps.
The show is distinctive in its significant focus on Social Security & Medicare, covering it far more than the average outlet, which suggests a strong editorial interest in issues affecting the elderly and economically vulnerable. Additionally, its more favorable coverage of Gavin Newsom and critical stance on Robert F. Kennedy Jr. sets it apart from broader media narratives.
Who KDKA Radio On-Demand boosts and attacks
Tracked figures split by this show's average tone toward them, each with the clips behind the call — tap a quote to jump to the audio.
KDKA Radio On-Demand is a reliable ally to John Fetterman, Josh Shapiro.
“John Fetterman doesn't want to answer that.”
“I side with John Fetterman with a caveat with an asterisk.”
“John Fetterman, you know, put it out there. He's like, you know, calling out the fact that, you know, every dollar we bring back to the Commonwealth. It's, you know, better jobs, a stronger community. Everything.”
“Governor Josh Shapiro called for universal condemnation of the assassination, saying political violence has no place in our country.”
“Josh Shapiro doesn't live my life.”
“I was there with the Governor Josh Shapiro and Senator McCormick to announce it this summer.”
Coverage Volume
Transcribed episodes per week — last 26 weeks
Sentiment Trajectory
Average weekly tone toward figures — green favorable, red critical
Top Issues KDKA Radio On-Demand drives
Top Issues ranked by lift — how much harder this show pushes an issue than the average outlet. ≥ 1.25× over-indexes.
KDKA Radio On-Demand pushes Social Security & Medicare hardest — 54.3× the average outlet's rate of coverage.
Show organizations & places →Organizations & Places They Focus On
Recent Stories
Clark Testing, a technology company in Pittsburgh, plays a crucial role in testing equipment for various industries, including space exploration. Recently, they conducted extensive testing for NASA's Artemis rocket, which involved months of preparation for a critical four-second test of the umbilical arm that supplies power and gases to the rocket. This highlights the importance of rigorous testing in ensuring the safety and functionality of aerospace technology.
AAA is offering travel packages for Pittsburgh Steelers fans, including trips to Paris for a game against the Saints and a New Year's trip to Nashville. These packages include accommodations, game tickets, and guided tours.
Puerto Rico is highlighted as a top travel destination, offering a variety of activities such as snorkeling, ziplining, and cultural experiences. The discussion emphasizes the ease of travel to Puerto Rico, including no passport requirement for U.S. citizens.
The episode features a cruise package to the Bahamas aboard Royal Caribbean's Odyssey of the Seas, highlighting various onboard activities and a sightseeing tour in New York City before departure. The cruise promises a fun and relaxing experience.
AAA is hosting a summer celebration at its McMurray office, featuring travel advisors, raffles, and refreshments. The event aims to engage members as summer comes to a close and promote last-minute travel options.
Families of sailors aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln are expressing outrage over the conditions their loved ones are facing during an extended deployment. Reports indicate severe morale issues, with one sailor reportedly attempting suicide due to the dire circumstances, prompting calls for accountability from President Trump, who dismissed the concerns of the families.
Mayor Corey O'Connor discusses the significant impact of the NFL Draft on Pittsburgh, highlighting the influx of visitors and the long-term benefits for the city's economy and reputation. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining momentum by attracting more events and businesses to the area, showcasing Pittsburgh's potential as a vibrant destination.
The Allegheny County Government Review Commission has recommended that property reassessments occur every four years, coinciding with the first year of a newly elected county executive's term. This recommendation comes as the county council considers legislation for reassessments every three years, highlighting the need for regular updates in a changing housing market.
A car accident on Grove City Road resulted in the death of a beloved local teacher, who was remembered fondly by the community. Reports indicate that the accident involved a driver under the influence, raising concerns about road safety and the impact of impaired driving. The incident has sparked an outpouring of grief and tributes for the teacher, highlighting her positive influence in the community.
As the school year approaches, a discussion has emerged about the appropriateness of allowing students to take mental health days off from school. The speaker expresses skepticism about this practice, emphasizing the importance of facing challenges rather than avoiding them. This topic reflects broader societal changes regarding mental health awareness and parental responses to children's emotional needs.
A woman named Eileen Colliani recently unearthed a heartfelt letter her father wrote to baseball player Ralph Kiner in 1947. The letter, which expressed empathy for Kiner's struggles with fans, reveals her father's own challenges with polio and his enduring love for baseball despite giving up his dream of playing professionally. This poignant discovery has resonated deeply with Eileen and her family, highlighting themes of support and resilience.
Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday announced a civil lawsuit against TikTok, accusing the platform of misrepresenting its app as age-appropriate for teens while exposing them to adult content. The lawsuit highlights concerns over TikTok's addictive features that may lead to unhealthy habits among young users, with Sunday emphasizing the need for parental responsibility in monitoring children's social media use.
The Pittsburgh Steelers' first round draft pick participated in practice but mostly observed drills due to precautionary measures regarding an unspecified injury. While the team is being cautious, there are no indications of a major issue, and he may return to full participation soon. The performance of the secondary has been notable, especially with key players absent, indicating a positive trend in their training camp.
Chronic absenteeism in Pennsylvania schools has reached alarming levels, with a rate of 21% in 2025, higher than pre-pandemic figures. Factors contributing to this issue include sickness, transportation problems, housing insecurity, and bullying. To combat this, school districts are encouraged to implement personalized interventions and support systems for students and their families.
Renowned investigator Steve Ridge has expressed optimism regarding new leads in the decades-old case of Sherry Mayhan, who went missing in 1985. Recent interviews have reportedly provided useful information, and authorities are said to be close to identifying a suspect. However, skepticism remains about the repeated claims of progress without tangible evidence.
Aaron Rodgers has ignited a heated debate after making comments about Dr. Anthony Fauci, prompting discussions on whether athletes should engage in political discourse. The host argues that opinions on political issues should be respected regardless of alignment, emphasizing the importance of allowing diverse voices in sports. The backlash against Rodgers highlights a growing trend of polarized opinions in society regarding public figures and their political expressions.
Aaron Rodgers has stirred up controversy with his comments during training camp, which some fans believe could divide the team. Critics argue that as a leader, he should refrain from expressing divisive opinions, especially during a crucial time for team cohesion. The discussion highlights the intersection of sports and politics, with fans expressing frustration over the timing of his remarks.
The conversation shifts to the decline of pensions and the rise of 401(k) plans, which place the responsibility of retirement savings on individuals. The hosts discuss the importance of creating a structured income plan for retirement, as many people struggle to differentiate between saving and generating income.
The episode discusses the financial habits of wealthy individuals, emphasizing their focus on long-term wealth building rather than status. It highlights how the wealthy prioritize spending on what brings them joy while saving in other areas, and the importance of having a detailed financial plan and budget.
The hosts address the increasing prevalence of scams targeting seniors, emphasizing the importance of being cautious and verifying information before taking action. They share anecdotes and advice on how to avoid falling victim to scams, highlighting the emotional manipulation often used by scammers.