The Influential Watchdog: The press’ role and influence on U.S. elections

The American Press. Are they truth sayers? Advisors to guide our votes? Neutral eyewitnesses? Or are they simply disappearing somewhere in between?

In 1791, freedom of the press was established in the First Amendment. Over 230 years later, with an ever-evolving technological and information landscape, what does freedom of the press and the responsibility of the press mean today?

After the first 2024 presidential debate, CNN was criticized for not fact checking candidates, especially former President Trump. The press also came under scrutiny for not shining a light on health concerns for President Biden. And although newspapers have been trending away from political endorsements, following the debate, the The New York Times editorial board called for President Biden to “leave the race” and declared former President Trump “unfit to lead.” Now, with Vice President Kamala Harris’ candidacy, the press has been chided for not asking tougher questions of the vice president, including not pushing more forcefully for a sit-down interview in a timely fashion.

Against the backdrop of the 2024 presidential election, this panel event will feature a discussion on the press’ role and influence on U.S. elections, diving into questions about whether the press continues to serve the basic principles that our founders envisioned, the role of local newsrooms, impacts of a polarized electorate and media landscape on local and national elections, and Americans’ views on the role and responsibility of the press.

KCUR's Steve Kraske will moderate the panel discussion. A list of featured panelists, and their biographies, is available .

A pre-program reception will take place from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. The live program will begin at 7:00 p.m.

Host or Publisher American Public Square