CNN was founded in 1980 and was the first 24-hour cable news network in the US. It gained a reputation for providing live breaking news coverage of major events like the Challenger explosion, Gulf War, and 9/11 attacks. This "CNN Effect" influenced public opinion and government diplomacy. However, CNN's definition of breaking news has expanded and its exclusivity in live coverage has declined with new competitors. CNN has faced criticism for lack of on-the-ground coverage of events like the Iran elections in 2009 and ratings have declined to their lowest levels since 2000.