Press Forward

**About Press Forward** Most Americans still want and value reliable local news about their communities, but it’s getting harder and harder to know who to trust online. Trusted local outlets now compete with a patchwork of platforms that provide information but often lack depth, consistency, and connection. Meanwhile, local newsrooms— which provide verified, independent reporting—have been shrinking for years. Even if it’s not always obvious, every community feels the loss. Strong local news does more than report facts. It connects neighbors, holds leaders accountable, and gives people the context they need to make decisions. When those connections fray, communities lose one of their most important sources of trust and shared understanding.