The media easily influences people's political views by helping them shape their opinions. The United States of America is a Democratic environment. Simply meaning that we vote in order to elect leaders and modify laws based on the majority. When people decide to vote, they rely on the media to help them in making their decision. Whether it's through mailings, television, radio, or even the internet, those who campaign politicians do their best to reach voters who haven't decided on their vote.
The media has changed over time with the invention of television and the internet by being able to influence a person's view on things by demonstrating the good in events. Overtime, the media has been able to choose what we see as views. If they want to promote someone in politics, they can show all of the things they have done to help those around them. If they want to destroy someone's reputation, they can do the opposite.