Please use these preapproved sources for your current events journals. If you want to use a different source, please check with the
Please use these preapproved sources for your current events journals. If you want to use a different source, please check with the instructor first. There are plenty of good sources out there — but there are also some really bad ones! I want to make sure that the source you are using is credible. Most of the sources listed below are free to use, although some restrict how many articles you can read for free.
- New York Times: This link goes directly to the Politics section of the newspaper. You may see links to other articles in other parts of the paper. Articles from the Business section or the Economix blog are often relevant to politics.
- Wall Street Journal: Note: Not all Wall Street Journal articles are free to non-subscribers (unfortunately, most articles are not available, I’m finding). The articles that are only available to subscribers may provide the first couple of paragraphs, which may make you think you’re getting the whole thing — but if there are only a couple of paragraphs followed by a “login” button, then you are not seeing the full article.
- Washington Post: I think all articles from the Washington Post are free, but you may need to set up an account (which is also free). I have a subscription so I’m not sure if there’s a paywall or not.
- CNN: CNN is the only one of the cable news networks that I find reasonably credible and balanced.
- Politico: All Politico articles are free to view, although when you click on a link you may have to deal with an annoying pop-up ad. Beware of the “comments” on Politico, as these often reflect just how nasty and stupid (to be blunt) Americans can be.
- The Hill: The Hill and Politico are roughly comparable. Some media observers suggest that Politico leans somewhat liberal, while The Hill leans somewhat conservative. And the warning about the quality of the comments section for Politico goes double here.
- The Guardian: The Guardian is one of the oldest and best-known British newspapers, and they’ve established a significant presence as reporters of US politics. Sometimes, it really helps to have an outsider’s perspective.
- Texas Tribune: This non-profit organization is a great source for news about Texas. This link leads to the TT’s Government page. All articles are free.
- FiveThirtyEight.com: 538 (named for the total number of Electoral College votes) is one of the most highly-respected statistical analysis organizations in the U.S. They provide some of the most detailed analysis of public opinion polls that you can find.