When powerful institutions limit media access, the need for independent, community-driven journalism becomes even greater. The recent decision by the Trump administration to remove major news outlets from Pentagon workspaces may seem like an issue confined to the United States, but the principle at stake is access to information, which affects everyone.

Local journalism plays a vital role in holding power to account. When governments make controversial decisions, whether it is large-scale public spending, allocating funds for discretionary projects, or restricting public input, journalists step in to ask the tough questions. Without a free and fair press, authorities could operate with little scrutiny, making decisions that impact communities without challenge.

This is not just a theoretical issue. The Trump administration’s move to replace established media outlets with pro-Trump platforms reflects a broader attempt to control the narrative rather than encourage transparency. When journalists lose access, the public loses too.

History shows that when governments sideline independent journalism, trust declines and misinformation fills the void. That is why independent journalism remains essential to ensuring communities stay informed and engaged.

If governments seek to replace independent scrutiny with more favourable coverage, they should expect the opposite. A strong and independent press, whether local or national, exists to serve the public, not those in power.

We will keep asking the hard questions.