Resources
Networks vs. Streams
Since the emergence of Fox News, the traditional news networks (e.g., CNN, MSNBC, etc.) have done America a grave disservice. Fox was founded as a communications arm of the Republican Party and, officially or unofficially, it continues in that role.
Other networks, though, in their efforts to demonstrate fairness (as well as generating good ratings) have ended up providing America with what basically amounts to a mishmash of political “horse race” and incoherent “both-sidesism,” where truth and outright lies are each given roughly equivalent time. As a result, the millions of dollars-worth of free media exposure lavished upon blatant disinformation (much of it Russian-sponsored) has ended up causing enormous damage to the American psyche, damage that may be almost impossible to reverse.
We therefore recommend curating your news feed by seeking out trustworthy sources who won’t waste your time with discussions of nonsense like whether or not Haitian immigrants are eating pets. (Spoiler alert: they’re not.)
Following is a list of some of our favorite news sources; they’re trustworthy, generally very lively and all are both informative and entertaining.
Consider this just a starting point – please send us some of your own!
Highly Recommended
In a word: indispensable. A phenomenally comprehensive source of news, analysis and historical context that puts current events in perspective – often terrifyingly so. Always lively and thought-provoking. Available on many cable systems – don’t miss it!
Randi Rhodes, was the #1 Progressive Talk Radio Show host in America for ten years in a row before ditching corporate radio to strike out on her own. She delivers smart, forward, free thinking, entertaining, liberal news and opinion that challenges the status quo and amplifies free speech.
Expert commentary from a 30-year veteran of US politics. At Hopium expect sharp analysis, live events, and all sorts of Hopium! You can subscribe or just sign up for the newsletter; Simon is the sort of soothing, positive presence we could all use much more of.
Brian Tyler Cohen is one of the most viewed independent progressive political hosts on YouTube. Subscribe for daily breaking news clips followed by in-depth commentary and interviews with top political figures.
Videos from Inequality Media
Robert Reich, through his company Inequality Media, has created a series of videos that help to explain economic issues in a clear and entertaining way.
Reich served as Secretary of Labor in the Clinton administration, for which Time Magazine named him one of the 10 most effective cabinet secretaries of the twentieth century. He has written 17 other books, including the best sellers “Aftershock,””The Work of Nations,” “Beyond Outrage,” and “The Common Good.” He is a founding editor of the American Prospect magazine, founder of Inequality Media, a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and co-creator of the award-winning documentaries “Inequality For All,” streaming on YouTube, and “Saving Capitalism,” now streaming on Netflix.
Robert is a real national resource… enjoy!