You are right, except in this instance there is very objective proof that inflation and homelessness are problems that have gotten worse recently and are having

You are right, except in this instance there is very objective proof that inflation and homelessness are problems that have gotten worse recently and are having widespread impacts. If the media choose not to cover this, because of whatever reasons they have (maybe they worry about frightening the public ?) then it will not be addressed politically. They are called the 4th estate for a reason. They determine what political discussions are allowed. Inflation is an important issue for lower income and middle class workers.