Newsmax TV has rapidly grown in popularity in recent years as a leading conservative cable news channel. However, there has been some confusion surrounding what channel Newsmax is located on with major pay-TV provider DirecTV. This is partly due to a carriage dispute in early 2023 that temporarily saw Newsmax dropped from DirecTV lineups.
The purpose of this comprehensive article is to clearly explain what channel Newsmax is currently broadcasting on with DirecTV as of January 2024. This will include confirming the HD channel number, as well as detailing alternative methods for accessing the network such as through the channel guide or search function.
The article will also provide necessary context around the 2023 DirecTV-Newsmax carriage dispute for readers, before highlighting some of Newsmax’s flagship programs and content. For balance, some alternatives to Newsmax on the DirecTV platform will also be covered. The ultimate goal is to equip readers with the information required to easily find Newsmax on DirecTV.
Finding Newsmax on DirecTV
Current Channel Number
As of January 1st, 2024, Newsmax TV HD is broadcasting on Channel 349 for DirecTV satellite and streaming subscribers. This channel placement for Newsmax is confirmed across DirecTV’s website and multiple third-party TV listings sources.
So for any DirecTV subscriber looking for Newsmax currently, simply tune your receiver to Channel 349 and you will be able to access Newsmax’s live broadcast in high definition.
Alternative Methods
If you do not wish to directly tune to Channel 349, there are several alternative methods for accessing Newsmax’s feed on DirecTV:
Channel Guide: You can scroll through the on-screen DirecTV channel guide on your TV or through the DirecTV app, and locate Newsmax TV HD on Channel 349 within the guide’s listings.
Search Function: Almost all DirecTV hardware and software allows you to directly search for a particular channel or program. Just search “Newsmax” on your DirecTV platform and it will display Channel 349.
Favorites List: For quicker access, you can add Channel 349 to your DirecTV favorites list. This way Newsmax appears on the first page of channels.
Direct Tuning: If you know the channel number already, you can just punch in 349 on your DirecTV remote to tune directly to Newsmax.
Package Availability
Newsmax TV is available on all major DirecTV packages, including ENTERTAINMENT, CHOICE, ULTIMATE, and PREMIER. So no matter what DirecTV package you subscribe to, you will be able to access Newsmax on Channel 349 as standard.
Past Carriage Disputes
In early 2023, DirecTV made the decision to drop Newsmax TV from its channel lineup following the expiration of the network’s previous carriage agreement.
Key Events:
- January 25, 2023 – Existing DirecTV-Newsmax carriage deal expires without renewal. DirecTV removes Newsmax.
- January – March 2023 – Heated public dispute plays out between the two companies. Newsmax accuses DirecTV of censorship while DirecTV cites increased financial demands.
- March 22, 2023 – New multi-year carriage deal reached, restoring Newsmax to DirecTV lineups.
At the core of the dispute were financial differences, with Newsmax pushing for carriage fees while DirecTV refused to pay increased rates. However, Newsmax executives also alleged political bias factored into DirecTV’s decision.
Ultimately after nearly two months without Newsmax, DirecTV and Newsmax were able to reach a resolution. The nature of these disputes, while disruptive for viewers in the short term, are quite common between distributors and programmers.
The key takeaway for readers is that as of January 2024, the prior dispute has been settled and Newsmax TV is once again available on DirecTV Channel 349 under a new multi-year agreement.
Newsmax Content and Programming
As a relatively young cable news channel launched in 2014, Newsmax TV focuses primarily on political commentary, news analysis, and talk show programming from a conservative perspective.
Some examples of popular Newsmax shows that a DirecTV viewer can access on Channel 349 include:
“Greg Kelly Live” – Hosted by Greg Kelly, this primetime show tackles major political and cultural stories. It is known for its fiery monologues and impassioned interviews.
“Stinchfield Show” – Veteran journalist Grant Stinchfield hosts this evening commentary program featuring regular conservative guests and pundits. Fast-paced debate of the day’s news.
“The Chris Plante Show” – Chris Plante brings 25 years of talk radio experience to this mid-morning show focusing on politics, media critique and American culture wars.
In terms of its ideological leanings, Newsmax provides an alternative view from more mainstream cable news outlets such as CNN and MSNBC which skew center-left. It offers programming more aligned with conservative stalwart Fox News.
However, Newsmax aims to differentiate itself by being “bold, fresh and independent” in its journalistic approach according to network statements. It places an emphasis on patriotic themes and supports traditional American values.
Alternatives to Newsmax on DirecTV
While Newsmax fills a conservative niche with its programming, DirecTV subscribers have access to a multitude of other news channels if seeking alternate perspectives:
Fox News – The long-time ratings leader in cable news. Fox News Channel on DirecTV Channel 360 offers right-leaning commentary and iconic hosts such as Sean Hannity.
CNN – Known for its down-the-line news coverage, CNN on Channel 202 leans center-left particularly in its primetime shows. Features anchors like Anderson Cooper and Don Lemon.
MSNBC – Another left-leaning cable news outlet, MSNBC on Channel 356 focuses heavily on U.S. politics from a liberal perspective. Rachel Maddow leads coverage.
BBC World News – Channel 346 offers global news and analysis from renowned British broadcaster BBC. Known for in-depth international reporting.
NewsNation – Billed as an unbiased alternative to partisan cable news channels, NewsNation provides straight news coverage on Channel 375.
So while Newsmax certainly fills an important role, DirecTV viewers have plenty of choice when it comes to finding a news channel that aligns with their political preferences or desire for neutral coverage.
Conclusion
For conservative-leaning DirecTV subscribers, Newsmax TV represents an essential addition to the channel lineup – currently found on Channel 349 in high definition. Understanding Newsmax’s channel placement and programming is key.
While carriage disputes interrupted Newsmax’s feed in early 2023, the channel has since returned to DirecTV lineups under a new long-term deal. Viewers can once again access Newsmax’s signature right-wing commentary and analysis around the clock.
Yet it is important to get information from multiple perspectives in cable news. So we encourage readers to explore DirecTV’s range of both conservative and liberal news networks, in addition to more objective sources. Evaluate information critically before forming conclusions.
As the 2024 election cycle heats up, Newsmax will undoubtedly play an influential role in shaping political narratives. The network speaks to a conservative audience but has also faced controversies around election misinformation and inflammatory rhetoric.
Nonetheless, Newsmax remains an essential voice in the American cable news landscape for millions of viewers. Understanding where and how to access the channel is vital.