The Challenge to Report on Democracy and the Public Interest 

Jennifer Schulze isn’t afraid to stand behind the critical need for reporters to prioritize democracy and the public interest. The political and technological landscape is rapidly evolving. And the Chicago-based journalist is known for her thoughtful analysis when talking about the media’s challenge in an era of misinformation. She discusses the concerns and the rise of alternative platforms like BlueSky with Pat Kreitlow, host of UpNorthNews Radio. 

“I like BlueSky,” Schulze says. “It offers freedom from the toxicity and algorithmic manipulation often associated with other platforms. And it’s a relief to use a space where there’s less hate speech and fewer amplification tactics favoring extreme content.” 

She went on to criticize Elon Musk for skewing Twitter’s environment in favor of right-wing narratives. It’s something she calls an action misrepresenting broader societal perspectives.

Tariffs are essentially tax increases. It’s imperative for journalists to draw those lines clearly for audiences.

Jennifer Schulze, Chicago Journalist

Kreitlow asks Schulze about a more troubling trend. What appears to be an increasing politicization of government agencies like the FCC under the potential future administration. She details how Trump’s associates, like FCC commissioner Brendan Carr, are strategizing to pit the agency against fact-checking and critical journalism. 

“It’s not just a hypothetical threat,” she explains. “The mere suggestion of punitive action creates a chilling effect, forcing newsrooms to second-guess their coverage.”

This environment is already leading to significant shifts in media behavior. Schulze points to recent examples, including major outlets like The Washington Post and Los Angeles Times. Both withdrew editorial endorsements during the election. She also highlights the reluctance of broadcasters like MSNBC to stand firm in covering Trump, underscoring the fear of financial and political retaliation.

Schulze also expresses dismay over MSNBC’s Morning Joe hosts who traveled to Mar-a-Lago to meet with Trump. 

“It shows such weakness,” she says. “They’ve essentially undermined years of credibility by appearing to grovel before a leader who thrives on intimidation.”

Kreitlow shares these concerns. He laments the absence of a modern equivalent to fearless journalists like Sam Donaldson. 

“Where’s the reporter who will spar with Trump, holding him accountable while maintaining credibility?” Kreitlow asks. “There is a void in challenging journalism today.”.

The conversation touches on economic issues, including the impact of Trump’s proposed tariffs. Schulze hopes newsrooms will do more in connecting these policies to the direct consequences on American wallets. 

“Tariffs are essentially tax increases,” she explains. “It’s imperative for journalists to draw those lines clearly for audiences.”

Despite the challenges, there is a critical need for journalism that prioritizes democracy and the public interest. 

“You remind us that democracy depends on fearless journalism—and that’s something worth protecting,” Kreitlow says.

“We’re in a time where corporate priorities often outweigh journalistic integrity,” Schulze says. “And the fight for truth is more important than ever.”

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WATCH the full episode. Schulze joins the show at 1:35:10:

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