Final answer:
Horse race journalism is when the media focuses on who is winning an election rather than on policy agendas and debates.
Step-by-step explanation:
Horse race journalism is best defined as when the media focuses on which candidate is winning an election rather than on policy agendas and debates. This type of journalism is popular because the public is always interested in who will win, but it is often criticized for its lack of depth and focus on the candidates' issue positions and voting histories.
Thus, horse race journalism refers to media coverage that focuses on the political contest as a competitive event rather than substantive issues. It emphasizes polls, strategy, and candidates' standings, often neglecting in-depth policy analysis. This approach can contribute to a superficial understanding of elections, prioritizing spectacle over informed civic discourse.