Backing your local beat

Article by Diane Stopyra Images by Bondé Angeline October 14, 2025

Blue Hens share 7 reasons to invest

When it comes to press freedom, “America talks a big game,” said Jennifer Lambe, associate professor of communication specializing in First Amendment rights. But the reality? The U.S. ranks 55th on this metric — its worst ever rating — according to the 2024 World Press Freedom Index.

Reasons for the decline include a lack of public trust in media, government policies that limit coverage and rising threats facing reporters. Reversing the trend requires political will and public support for new journalism models (more hyperlocal outlets, nonprofit reporting).

Rest assured, this is possible. “The state of the media — the falling apart of what once was — feels really awful right now,” Lambe said. “But it opens the door for reimagining.”

One solution: reinvesting in local news. Here are seven reasons why you should.

#1: Protect your town

Research shows the mere presence of a watchdog reporter keeps public officials in line. This is especially true as local TV news becomes more homogenized. Want a more transparent, accountable government or fewer backroom deals? The pen holds power.

#2: Preserve the past

Local news doesn’t just chronicle events — it captures the values and priorities of a community. It’s less about recording the annual tomato festival, more about offering future generations a chance to know — and learn from — their elders.

#3: Build community

In places where local outlets thrive, neighbors tend to be more, well, neighborly. Think higher levels of trust and a shared sense of identity. One Blue Hen strengthening those communal bonds: Allison Taylor Levine, graduate alumna from the Class of 2003, founder, publisher and CEO of Spotlight Delaware.

#4: Boost civic engagement

When people have access to solid local reporting, they’re more likely to attend meetings and to vote — not just for a political party, but for the candidate who represents their interests. Participation goes up; polarization, down.

#5: Invest in the truth

Fake news! Clickbait! Sensationalism! Whatever your gripe with the media, supporting local journalism insulates you and your community. As the foundation, robust community-based reporting helps ensure the health of the entire information system.

#6: Enjoy literary craft

Local journalism can be a narrative tour de force — voice-driven and emotionally attuned. Consider the work of Doug Donovan, Class of 1993, and Lloyd Fox, Class of 1988, who won a Local Reporting Pulitzer for exposing a Netflix-worthy mayoral scandal in the Baltimore Sun.

#7: Have fun!

Major networks aren’t covering dustups at the pickleball court— or why there’s a goat loose on Main Street. Local outlets capture those humorous, absurd, colorful, fully human moments that make a place — your place — feel alive.