| Hey, | It's been a brutal week for independent media. | On Thursday, we reported a shocking story: several conservative commentators were recruited by Russian operatives for an influence campaign, according to a Department of Justice indictment. | Leading the operation was Lauren Chen, a commentator who had recently become pro-Russia and anti-Israel. She allegedly misled those involved, working directly with Russian agents to push their agenda. | As someone committed to building a news outlet free from powerful influence, this news hit hard. | Building an independent news company like this is incredibly hard. My team works tirelessly; the work is expensive, and the margins are slim. Advertising isn't what it used to be, and getting aligned sponsors is challenging and usually not lucrative. Paid subscriptions are the lifeline that keeps us going, but most people don't realize how vital they are for maintaining truly independent journalism. | Foreign countries, dark-money political groups, billionaires, and secret influence operations flood the media industry with cash. When finances get tight, even your favorite commentators and outlets might accept cash from compromising sources. In an industry where it's hard to make ends meet, their moral ideals can quickly erode into cynical realism. | And a lot of people give in. | Seemingly innocent influencers posting on social media are getting paid to push an agenda β it happens in both Republican and Democrat circles. Newsmax, a prominent right-wing outlet, was started with massive funds from Qatar, which also backs Al Jazeera on the left. America's biggest media companies are propped up by Big Pharma, and even China. | It sounds terrifying. Dystopian, even. What's real, and what's been bought? | This is exactly why I started Upward News. The truth matters. I couldn't find a trustworthy, principled news outlet when we needed it most. It would be so much easier if we just gave in, accepted big money from special interests, and cut corners. No more late nights scrambling to find sponsors or asking readers to help us stay afloat. We've been offered deals, and we've said no. Many times. | But the people who say yes? They live comfortably, to the tune of millions β while selling out the truth. | So here's my honest ask: | Last month was hard for Upward News, and I'm sure it was for other independent outlets, too. We're fighting to survive in an industry stacked against us. But we refuse to sell out. | If you believe in independent, uncompromised journalism, can you spare a few dollars to keep our team intact and help us keep fighting? | | With your support, we remain accountable only to you β not to billionaires, not to foreign powers. Just you. | Ari | |
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