ProPublica and The Texas Tribune have announced the selection of five new partner organizations for the second year of their local investigative initiative, aimed at bolstering accountability journalism across Texas. This initiative reflects a growing commitment to comprehensive investigative reporting that serves the public interest and holds powerful institutions accountable.
The participating newsrooms for the upcoming year include the Big Bend Sentinel, the Houston Chronicle, KRIS 6 News in Corpus Christi, KXAN Investigates in Austin, and the Texas Observer. These organizations will collaborate closely with the Texas investigative unit, which operates under the auspices of ProPublica and the Tribune, to investigate state and federal efforts aimed at restricting local governance.
During the initiative’s first year, participating newsrooms produced in-depth investigations that spotlighted critical issues, such as a controversial overhaul of Dallas city government, the rising influence of the North Texas church Mercy Culture, and the political dynamics surrounding Elon Musk’s business dealings in Texas. Notably, the Texas Newsroom and the Houston Chronicle joined forces to expose efforts by Musk’s The Boring Company to construct a flood tunnel in Houston, aided by a local congressman, showcasing the power of collaborative journalism.
Vianna Davila, deputy editor of the ProPublica-Tribune investigative unit, emphasized the significance of local newsrooms in contributing to informed public discourse. “The first year of our Texas investigative initiative demonstrated the critical role local newsrooms play in holding accountable the powerful officials of this very influential state. We are eager to keep working with local partners, so together we can be force multipliers and produce strong investigative journalism,” she stated.
Founded in 2020, the ProPublica-Tribune investigative unit was established to foster a unique collaboration that enhances investigative reporting for and about Texas. Stories generated by this partnership are distributed freely to other news outlets across Texas and beyond, underlining the commitment to disseminate vital information widely.
Introducing the New Partner Organizations
The five newly selected newsrooms each bring distinct strengths and perspectives to the initiative:
Big Bend Sentinel
The Big Bend Sentinel is a nonprofit publication based in Marfa, Texas, covering the diverse communities of Far West Texas. With a focus on in-depth reporting, the Sentinel addresses local news, arts, and cultural stories. It plays a pivotal role in informing residents about significant issues such as the federal government’s plans for a border wall along the Rio Grande, making it a crucial resource for the region.
Houston Chronicle
As the largest newsroom in Texas, the Houston Chronicle is renowned for its impactful investigative journalism, having won the Pulitzer Prize three times. The Chronicle’s recent investigations have led to significant reforms in utility practices and brought attention to deadly flooding issues in the region, highlighting the critical role of robust journalism in public safety and governance.
KRIS 6 News
KRIS 6 News, serving South Texas since 1956, has a history of impactful reporting that addresses public safety and governmental accountability. Notable investigations include exposing design flaws in local infrastructure and uncovering potential corruption in housing deals, demonstrating the station’s commitment to serving the Coastal Bend community.
KXAN Investigates
KXAN Investigates is recognized for its commitment to holding leaders accountable and advocating for community safety. The team has received numerous awards for its investigative work, and its innovative storytelling methods have shed light on critical issues, including challenges within the Texas criminal justice system and the implications of immigration policies.
Texas Observer
The Texas Observer, a nonprofit news outlet founded in 1954, is dedicated to elevating voices and stories often overlooked in mainstream media. Its investigative reporting has garnered numerous accolades, exposing issues such as systemic racism and government failures, all while striving to empower its readers and promote equity across Texas.
As these five newsrooms embark on this collaborative journey, the emphasis remains on fostering a culture of accountability and transparency in journalism. This initiative not only strengthens local reporting but also enhances the overall democratic fabric of Texas, ensuring that the voices of its citizens are heard and represented.
