The media's framing of issues plays a critical role in shaping political debates. By emphasizing certain aspects of a story, the media can influence public perception and understanding of complex issues. This framing can determine which topics receive attention, how they are interpreted, and which narratives dominate the discourse. For instance, sensationalized coverage of crime can skew public opinion towards security concerns, while minimizing systemic factors like poverty. Ultimately, the way issues are framed impacts policy discussions and can lead to polarized opinions among the electorate.