Every Saturday, I send members a weekend reading list with overlooked stories and headlines. This week, I reflect on the state of our media and why you should support independent outlets and creators. If you enjoy this newsletter, consider upgrading today. Now, let’s dive in.

Since the election, we have seen a steady stream of billionaire and corporate titans compete to be the most obsequious presence at Mar-a-Lago. Media giants that once loudly claimed to stand against fascism have humiliated themselves and alienated their viewers and readers.

In the last week, we saw Disney agree to pay a future Trump charity $15 million to settle a defamation claim against ABC News and its star anchor. Sensing an opportunity, Trump then sued the Des Moines Register over a poll — yes, a poll. My suspicion is that Trump thinks the newspaper’s parent Gannett may, like Disney, be an easy mark for a multimillion dollar payout.

Sadly, that was not the worst media news of the week. On Thursday, media reporter Oliver Darcy reported in his must-read newsletter that MSNBC’s new boss would like the cable network “to be on better terms with Republicans.”

As someone who goes on MSNBC and pulls no punches, I was taken aback:

“In free-wheeling conversations, the SpinCo boss has indicated to people that he does not want bomb throwing from hosts and commentators which might unnecessarily alienate Republicans and spawn bad press.”

Et tu, MSNBC?

While nothing has changed yet, we can surmise where this likely ends up. Another CNN aiming to both sides its way through the news. Republicans will remain alienated, but the new corporate overlords will be appeased.

To be clear, this is still only in the discussion phase, but I suspect management will want to start rolling this out in the first part of the new year. I suggest they announce it on March 15.

Many of you are deeply frustrated by the rapid decline of legacy media and have asked what independent sources I trust for news, information and analysis. So, for this week’s reading list, here is a list of the 17 newsletters I subscribe to (some free, some paid).

YOUR READING LIST

Democracy Docket: If you are not yet a paid member, consider upgrading and supporting its critical work during a time when we need pro-democracy news outlets more than ever.

Citation Needed: Molly White is a compelling writer about crypto scams that are increasingly dominating our economy.

Civil Discourse with Joyce Vance: One of my daily must-reads by an extraordinary lawyer, writer and person.

Emptywheel: One of the joys of independent media is reading people like Marcy Wheeler. She offers a unique insight on so many topics, particularly legal ones.

Letters from an American: The iconic newsletter from the iconic Heather Cox Richardson.

Become a premium member to read the rest

For $120/year, upgrade to our premium membership and support Democracy Docket’s 16-person team in keeping you informed on the latest news about voting and elections in the courts. 

Our premium membership includes:

  • Exclusive newsletters from me, including weekend reading lists, weekly tip sheets with cases to watch, litigation previews and more


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That’s all for this week (and this year!). My weekend reading list and Bode will be back in your inboxes in the New Year.