Publicly funded news organization needed

May 21, 2021 marked a new era for the Chicago Tribune, one that would turn the page on many of its journalists - including Pulitzer Prize winning Mary Schmich. After the board had approved an Alden Global Capital buyout of the company, it is estimated around 40 of its most trusted journalists have decided to leave in a defiant stand against their new boss.

Alden Global Capital is known as the "grim reaper" of the American print media and for good reason. The hedge fund buys up newspaper groups from all over the country and bleeds them dry for profits.

They do this by slashing staff, assigning the few staff they retain more beats, and highlighting the advertisements that make them money. In the hands of Alden and with fewer resources, the Chicago Tribune cannot be expected to continue doing the vital work it has been doing at the same level.

Maintaining this standard of journalism is of paramount importance to continue Illinois on the right track. We cannot possibly maintain a healthy democracy without these organizations.

They provide us with an honest place to get news. They shine light on the corruption and hypocrisy of local legislators that claim to act in the best interest of our communities.

Since the ink has dried on the Alden deal, Illinois residents need to urge their local legislators to create a publicly funded news organization in Illinois.

Kevin McCarthy

Winnetka