Hi Reader,

Our fall member drive is over tomorrow, and I’m grateful to say that we’ve had an overwhelming show of support since last week. Over 1,500 people have joined or renewed their membership with ProPublica so far. If you’re in a position to do so, I’d love for you to join us and stand up for the ability for independent journalism to hold those in power accountable.

This week, we published the latest in our explosive series “The Secret IRS Files.” More than half of America’s 100 richest people exploit special trusts, allowing them to pass their fortunes onto their heirs without paying estate taxes, costing the government untold billions of dollars. Our hope is that this story (like all our reports) spurs a fact-based discussion from citizens and lawmakers on the fairness of our tax policy.

And we have reason to be hopeful. Our track record is unparalleled: laws get changed, policies get reversed, innocent people are freed and more.

ProPublica’s reporting is made possible with the support of our readers. Investigative journalism is time-consuming and expensive, and it’s because of the ongoing support of tens of thousands of individuals that we are the largest investigative newsroom in the country. But the critical dollars we will raise from this member drive can’t come a moment too soon — we’ve got stories brewing all over the country, including more on “The Secret IRS Files,” police reform and racial justice to name only a few. Join us today to help ensure we have the independence and resources we need to keep going.

Journalism that shines a light on injustice and creates real-world change is powered by our readers, and I hope we can count on you.

Thanks so much,
Jill Shepherd
Proud ProPublican