At this point, no one can possibly argue that political journalism has fulfilled its essential missions of creating an informed electorate and holding the powerful accountable.
But our top newsroom leaders have seen no need for a course change. In particular, they have failed to respond to the growing asymmetry between the political parties, even as one became overtly counter-majoritarian, anti-democratic, and unmoored to reality.
Press Watch agitates for change. It encourages reporters to fight disinformation more enthusiastically and effectively, especially when our democracy and people’s lives are at stake. It identifies best practices that others can emulate. It urges the reality-based parts of the industry to explicitly condemn Fox News and other far-right propaganda outlets as disinformation operations.
Donors
Karen Mortensen Dan Froomkin at Press Watch is performing the most critical role that exists in America today. If we want to preserve democracy, we absolutely must engage in media criticism, and Press Watch is a shining example. We can only change minds by...
Glenn Marcus Dan's work is fantastic. I am in the Press Freedom world, and there is no better group than Press Watch!
Kenneth Weinberg I have known Dan Froomkin since we met years ago at a tribute for I.F. Stone. We are lucky to have someone like him who carries on that tradition, now more than ever
Laura Jordan 1Dan Froomkin stays focused on what needs our attention.
John Boyer 1I appreciate the value of your insightful criticism.