Hi Reader,

Injustice, in one form or another, is the subject of nearly every ProPublica investigation.

Here’s why: We’re steadfast in our mission to use the power of journalism to expose corruption and abuses of power. And our reporting can make a real difference: policies get reversed, or new ones are enacted; people at the top resign; debts are erased; innocent people are freed, and so much more.

Last May, ProPublica reported on a shadowy network of brokers and investors who were pursuing billions of dollars in loosely monitored contracts from government agencies desperately trying to deal with the pandemic. One contractor, Robert Stewart, was awarded a $34.5 million, no-bid contract to supply N95 respirators to the Department of Veterans Affairs for their hospitals, despite having no experience selling medical equipment, no supply chain expertise and very little credit. After our story, the VA terminated the contract, and two months ago, Stewart pleaded guilty in a federal court to three counts of making false statements, wire fraud and theft of government funds.

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Our spring member drive ends tomorrow, and I’m asking you to join us before the deadline. Our mission grows more important by the day, and with your help, we can dig deeper and, together, spur even more impact. Donate today and support journalism that keeps the powerful accountable.

Thanks,
Jill Shepherd
Proud ProPublican