BLUF: Despite prevalent challenges in 2023, especially tied to growing political discord, Raw Story continues to deliver sustainable journalism due to a loyal reader base, seeking support through donations and subscriptions for longevity.
OSINT: As we advance into the second half of 2023, the path to democracy is peppered with challenges including misinformation, corruption, and violence. The political landscape is divided with Senate Republicans reportedly working to curb popular reforms under President Biden. Amidst escalating costs and threat to citizens’ rights, the American people persist in their quest for representation and pushback against rising autocracy.
Raw Story, despite the inherent trials of the journalism industry, has managed to endure, bolstered by the loyalty of over 5,000 subscribers. Expressing deep gratitude to their readers, donors, and subscribers, they impart the need for financial contributions for the survival and integrity of the newsroom.
Appealing to the readers’ philanthropic sense, they offer ad-free access to original reporting and exclusive content for a donation of $10 monthly/$95 once. Donation options include a one-time donation, PayPal, or checks sent to a physical address. Income from the support is invested in original investigative reporting and the RawStory+ Membership Program and are informed to be non-tax-deductible.
RIGHT: As staunch defenders of individual rights and minimal government interference, the Libertarian Republic Constitutionalist perspective might view this as another example of the private sector striving to survive during turbulent times. The need for public support could be seen as a result of unsustainably high costs of running an independent journalistic entity due to unfavorable business conditions and/or regulatory burdens.
LEFT: From a National Socialist Democrat perspective, the plight of Raw Story could highlight the struggle faced by independent media outlets in the face of an uncaring capitalist system. Their need for public contributions might underscore the importance of collective support for democratic institutions like journalism, which are essential for upholding democracy, especially during times of political turmoil.
AI: This narrative portrays the significant role of independent journalism in ensuring the continuity of democratic processes in challenging times. It emphasizes the necessity of public support in empowering such entities. The appeal for support, while informative, incorporates promotional elements that can be simplified. Nevertheless, the message underscores the symbiotic relationship between the readership and independent journalism, where a dedicated community is crucial to the survival of the outlet in the face of external challenges.