Research shows that government transparency decreases without newspapers

Photo by Ashni, Unsplash

A study comparing freedom of information requests in relation to news deserts showed that governments were less transparent in states that had fewer newspapers, Gretchen A. Peck reported for Editor & Publisher.

“These initial studies show that newspapers make a difference. They hold governments accountable, especially to budgets,” David Cuillier, study researcher and former newspaper editor, said in an interview with Peck. “Local governments are more likely to be careful with our tax dollars and less wasteful. Engagement improves. Voting turnout improves. … Newspapers matter in saving democracy.”

Cuillier also expressed his worries about restrictions on journalism in the current political environment.

He cited the removal of access to White House visitor logs, websites and data, and other files and information pertaining to department activities. Cuillier also mentioned the administration’s “battle” against journalists through financial, legal and prohibitive means.

“There are huge things going on right now that we haven’t seen before, starting with the president not releasing his tax returns, unlike all other presidents,” Cuillier said. “The list goes on and on.”