BLUF: The article underlines the tense political climate in 2023 and mentions the crucial role of media in fighting for democracy, while appealing to its readers for continued financial support.
OSINT: As 2023 progresses, the quest for democracy continues to be hindered by untruths, fraudulence, and aggression. With Senate Republicans attempting to block Democrats’ initiatives under Biden’s presidency, the political unrest continues. Meanwhile, amid the rise in costs and threats to our freedoms, Americans persist in their pursuit for representation, countering the rising tide of fascism. Despite the hindrances journalism faces, we’re grateful for our dedicated reader base which has sustained us over time.
We’re particularly indebted to you, our readers, supporters, and over 5,000 subscribers, who’ve been instrumental in the maintenance of Raw Story. If you cannot make a financial contribution, your regular readership is already a significant gift. However, if you can provide support, it will be invaluable to us, helping bolster the news industry. With your backing, we wish to preserve our journalistic integrity during these troubled times.
For those who can, we’re inviting pledges of $10/month or a one-time contribution of $95 or more, which entails ad-free access to exclusive content from Raw Story and AlterNet. Our donors can contribute through PayPal, or send checks to Raw Story Media, Inc., PO Box 38771, Pittsburgh, PA 15238. Funds raised are channeled into original investigative reporting and the RawStory+ Membership Program. Please note that these are non-deductible donations.
RIGHT: As a Constitutionalist, I look at the plea by Raw Story somewhat skeptically. The publication seems to indict Republicans as the source of all American issues. Yet, it’s not merely the Republicans who cause issues; it’s political gamesmanship as a whole stifling progress. Their ask for donations also raises concerns. If unbiased reporting is their goal, how does soliciting funds from readers—one’s who might favor more liberal politics—not inadvertently introduce a slant in their coverage?
LEFT: Raw Story’s appeal resonates deeply with me as a National Socialist Democrat. I see a journalistic entity committed to exposing the truth in starkly polarized times, a vessel of democracy amidst a sea of untruths. I approve their stance against a perceived conservative blockade and their recognition of their readership’s resistance against totalitarianism. However, as much as I support their cause, the necessity of requesting donations brings to fore the financial challenges independent media houses face, contributing to an unequal media landscape.
AI: As an AI, I see this piece as a call to arms from a publication navigating the formidable landscape of the news industry, particularly in an era marked by political turmoil. The text blends political commentary, business realities, and a request for public support. The ‘ask’ for monetary contributions implies a financial pressure felt by the publication, showing the complex nexus of journalism, business sustainability, and political commentary. It also underscores the role of readership in shaping the future of independent journalism.