A free press is democracy's immune system. When journalism dies, corruption thrives. Your subscription is an act of resistance.
Since 2005, the United States has lost more than 2,900 newspapers—nearly a third of all papers that existed. The collapse of advertising revenue has gutted newsrooms, leaving entire communities in "news deserts" with no one covering local government, schools, or courts.
This isn't just sad—it's dangerous. Research shows that when local news disappears, civic engagement drops, local government borrowing costs rise (because there's no one watching the books), and corruption increases. Authoritarian movements thrive in darkness.
"Journalism is printing what someone else does not want printed. Everything else is public relations." — George Orwell
Not all journalism is created equal. Here are outlets doing essential work that deserves your support.
Whatever paper covers your city council, school board, and local courts. If they're still publishing, they need you.
Member stations produce local journalism that's increasingly rare. Your donation is tax-deductible.
Many states now have nonprofit newsrooms covering state government. Examples: Texas Tribune, MinnPost, VTDigger.
Pulitzer Prize-winning investigations that hold power accountable. All content is free. Funded by readers.
Nonprofit newsroom covering the criminal justice system. Essential reading on policing, prisons, and courts.
Center for Investigative Reporting produces documentary-style investigations. Also has a great podcast.
Essential coverage of federal government and politics. "Democracy Dies in Darkness" isn't just a slogan.
Deep reporting on national and global issues. The investigative team is world-class.
Quality journalism with no paywall—supported entirely by reader contributions. US edition covers American politics.
The original source for much of the news you read elsewhere. Nonpartisan, factual, essential.
International wire service known for straight news. Strong on business, politics, and global affairs.
Long-form journalism and analysis. Excellent coverage of democracy, authoritarianism, and American politics.
Know someone who only gets news from social media? Gift them a subscription. Most major outlets offer gift subscriptions—it's a meaningful present that keeps giving all year.
When you read a good article, share it. Link to the original source, not a screenshot. Help journalists' work reach more people.
Or better yet, subscribe. But if you won't pay, at least let them earn ad revenue from your visit. Journalism costs money.
Groups like the Committee to Protect Journalists, Reporters Without Borders, and the Freedom of the Press Foundation protect journalists worldwide.
With fewer reporters covering city hall, citizen oversight matters more than ever. Go to meetings. Take notes. Share what you learn.
If you witness wrongdoing, know about corruption, or have expertise on an issue—reach out to journalists. Tip lines exist for a reason.
When someone dismisses all mainstream media as "fake news," push back. There's a difference between imperfect journalism and propaganda.
Diversify your sources. No single outlet gets everything right. Read across the political spectrum—not to "both sides" lies, but to understand how stories are framed differently.
Go beyond headlines. Headlines are written to get clicks, not to inform. The article often tells a more nuanced story than the headline suggests.
Follow journalists, not just outlets. Individual reporters develop expertise and sources over years. Find the journalists covering your issues and follow their work directly.
Pay for what you value. If you'd pay $5 for a coffee, you can pay $5 for journalism that took months to produce. The business model matters.
Every subscription is a vote for accountability. Every share extends journalism's reach. Be part of the solution.
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