About this episode

The episode discusses the challenges local reporters face in accessing politicians and the changing dynamics of media relations.

Generations of local journalists mostly took for granted their ability to access elected officials. Talking to the local newspaper or TV station was one of the only ways to get the word out, so politicians didn’t have much choice—even if they were mad at the coverage. It’s not quite so simple these days. A mayor can talk directly to constituents through social media, or through influencers friendly to their politics. Anti-press sentiment is rampant across the political spectrum, leading some ...

Topics covered

• local journalism
• politics
• media access
• anti-press sentiment
• social media

Keywords

• local reporters
• politicians
• media relations
• social media
• anti-press sentiment

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Columbia Journalism Review

Places: local

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