Name: When local news dies, so does democracy
Uploaded: 2020-03-03T16:18:10Z
Duration: 11 min 1 s
Description: Nearly 1,800 newsrooms have shuttered across the US since 2004, leaving many communities unseen, unheard and in the dark. In this passionate talk and rallying cry, journalist Chuck Plunkett explains why he rebelled against his employer to raise awareness for an industry under threat of extinction -- and makes the case for local news as an essential part of any healthy democracy.

Nearly 1,800 newsrooms have shuttered across the US since 2004, leaving many communities unseen, unheard and in the dark. In this passionate talk and rallying cry, journalist Chuck Plunkett explains why he rebelled against his employer to raise awareness for an industry under threat of extinction -- and makes the case for local news as an essential part of any healthy democracy.

Chuck Plunkett: When local news dies, so does democracy

When local news dies, so does democracy

Shift from print to digital and cuts by hedge funds have decimated local newsrooms, leaving communities in 'news deserts'.

As digital media undermines print revenue, local journalism suffers, threatening democratic transparency and community insight.

Local news deserts expand as nearly 1,800 newsrooms close since 2004, eroding public oversight and informed local electoral choices.