Hi Reader,

There is nothing more powerful in a democracy than an informed public. People can vote out corruption, incompetence or ineffectiveness, but only if they know about it. Voters must know the truth about their leaders if they are going to hold them accountable. As a ProPublica reader, you know what an effective watchdog our long-form, deep-dive journalism can be in holding powerful people to account.

Our work shines a light on decisions made behind closed doors, making government more transparent to the public. We keep track of campaign promises and draw attention to where politicians have fallen short. In battleground states, our reporters show how election procedures and legislative maps impact who votes and how votes are counted. We expose groups fighting efforts to reform the Supreme Court, efforts sparked by our reporting on justices’ beneficial relationships with billionaire donors. We brought readers inside Ziklag, the secret organization of wealthy Christians trying to sway the election and change the country. Transparency is crucial for an informed electorate, which is the cornerstone of a functioning democracy. 

And thanks to the support of readers like you, we have the largest team of investigative reporters in the country, and every single person in our newsroom is working hard to make sure our readers have information they can trust — at home, out in the world and when casting a ballot. 

ProPublica’s model is so effective because we have millions of readers like you, discussing and sharing our stories. And over 50,000 of you give to support our work. Your gift will immediately be put to use on the stories we’re working on right now — stories that shine a light on betrayals of the public trust and will help you and people all over the country make informed decisions this November and beyond. 

Investigative journalism is an optimistic endeavor. It is born of the conviction that an informed and engaged public will make better decisions. That, when presented with evidence of injustice or wrongdoing, people will be prepared to demand change. The need for nonpartisan, independent journalism has never been more critical. Stand with us.

Thanks so much, 

Jill Shepherd

Proud ProPublican