Local journalism is essential for healthy communities, competitive marketplaces, and a thriving democracy.
Unfortunately, the local news industry is being decimated in the digital age. This is due both to the rapid proliferation of online news content as well as unfair market practices by some of the world’s largest technology companies that reuse local news’ content, data, customers, and advertisers. While the value of local journalism as a trusted brand is starting to shine through to advertisers, the economic downturn due to the COVID-19 pandemic is endangering what is left of local journalism.
Addressing these unfair business practices and local news’ adoption of a new business model will take time. If Americans are to continue receiving the benefits of local journalism—transparency, fact-checking, professional editing, and high quality and timely reporting that promotes vibrant, cohesive, and diverse communities—local news needs help to survive the current economic storm.
