I have been paying attention to how local issues are reported and discussed, and I have noticed patterns that raise important questions about fairness in journalism.

Local journalism works best when it strengthens accountability and trust. Competing for traffic or headlines should never come at the expense of giving members of our community the full picture.

On several occasions I have seen articles and celebratory local government updates appear within minutes of NJ21st publishing significant reporting. These articles and updates often cover entirely different topics, but the timing makes it appear less like coincidence and more like an effort to draw attention away from important reporting. The interplay between updates from government entities and news organizations also comes across as coordinated and can raise serious questions.

Whether or not that is the intention, the effect is the same.

I have also observed cases where issues first raised through investigative reporting, such as the political entanglements tied to shared service agreements, later appeared in questions to candidates without any acknowledgment of where those issues were brought forward. The next question to a candidate from a local outlet will be a clear example of this.

Ethical journalism, at its best, cites and builds on prior reporting.

That is not about recognition for its own sake, but about providing transparency and context so readers understand how the conversation has developed. It allows them to see the full story and why the questions are important.

A healthy approach would look to amplify stories that bring important issues to light while crediting the work that uncovered them.

We have also seen government officials and institutions attempt to market one outlet while diminishing others that are critical, instead of responding to the questions and issues that reporting brought to light.

As a candidate, I want to see our community benefit from a media environment where accuracy and fairness are the standard. This serves every resident who relies on the news to make informed decisions.

Arik Samson

Candidate for Berkeley Heights Board of Education

Thank you.