Charter Communications and its regional news brand Spectrum News have launched a new channel that covers the state of Michigan.
Spectrum News Michigan will be available on Spectrum’s cable TV platforms on Channel 1 — the same channel position as most of Spectrum’s regional news operations in other areas — and will offer around-the-clock access to news, weather and community-oriented stories from throughout the state.
In addition to being available on Spectrum TV, Spectrum News Michigan will be available as a streaming channel within the Spectrum News app and via the Spectrum app on Xumo Stream Box, Apple TV and Roku, the company affirmed. The new channel will be led by Michigan native Craig Huber, who will serve as the Executive Producer of Spectrum News Michigan.
“From Metro Detroit to West Michigan and Up North, Spectrum News delivers meaningful journalism,” Huber said in a statement on Monday. “As a native of the Mitten State, I know Spectrum News’ community-focused storytelling will resonate with our audience.”
Huber began his journalism career in 1993. He most recently served as a digital news producer for Spectrum News, according to a social media profile. He also worked at local TV stations across the country.
Huber will be joined by Brian Farber, who will serve as a reporter for Spectrum News Michigan and, in particular, the area of Grand Rapids, which he has covered since 1998.
News of the channel’s launch drew bipartisan praise on Monday.
“Michigan welcomes the launch of Spectrum News to our roster of state media,” said Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks. “At a time when it can be difficult to differentiate fact from fiction, I am glad to see more space being created for journalists who are dedicated to providing hyperlocal coverage and encouraging informed engagement in communities across the state.”
“People across Michigan, from big cities to our close-knit communities, want access to news that impacts their lives,” said Senate Republican Leader Aric Nesbitt. “I’m pleased Spectrum News is stepping up with its trusted journalism to deliver the stories that matter most to Michiganders.”
Last year, Spectrum News ranked as the most-watched linear news network among Spectrum customers, averaging 1.76 million daily viewing households across its platforms. The channel had higher ratings across its service footprint than all four major broadcast networks and the three biggest cable news channels, based on data collected from Spectrum TV set-top boxes and Spectrum streaming video devices.
