The fundamental principle of journalism is accountability

In an era where misinformation spreads with alarming ease, fact-checking is an essential function of the media—not a form of sensationalism. While some critics dismiss media fact-checking as part of a theatricalized narrative, the reality is that holding other media outlets accountable is an obligation that should be respected and encouraged.

There are several reputable and nonpartisan organizations, such as factcheck.org and PolitiFact, dedicated to scrutinizing claims made by influential media figures. Journalists like Glenn Kessler, who has provided fact-checking analysis for The Washington Post since 2011, regularly analyze exaggerated or misleading claims. These efforts are not about amplifying drama but ensuring accuracy in reporting. However, when local outlets engage in fact-checking efforts, they are sometimes unfairly accused of engaging in media feuds rather than fulfilling their journalistic duty.

A recent New Times article regarding the supposed “squabble” between The Tribune and CalCoastNews reflects this mischaracterization (“Intensive coverage,” Jan. 30). The implication that The Tribune is engaging in journalistic malpractice simply for investigating claims made by CalCoastNews is a distortion of what investigative journalism entails. When CalCoastNews made unsubstantiated and salacious claims about former Paso Robles City Manager Ty Lewis, it was a public controversy that demanded scrutiny. Lewis subsequently accused CalCoastNews “reporter” Karen Velie of conspiring with City Councilmember Chris Bausch to ruin his reputation. This serious accusation warranted journalistic investigation, not dismissal as a petty dispute.

To suggest that The Tribune is merely engaging in a public spat by fact-checking CalCoastNews is to misunderstand the role of responsible journalism. The Tribune‘s investigative work into the “Eye on Ty” series by Velie was an appropriate journalistic pursuit, given the weight of the allegations and the harm misinformation could cause. And there was harm to both Lewis’ reputation and Paso Robles taxpayers. Paso Robles agreed to a monetary settlement with Lewis based largely on the controversy that CalCoastNews created. The city clearly found enough merit in Lewis’ claims to pursue a settlement agreement.

Checking the accuracy of claims, especially those that directly impact individuals and public perception, is not at all equivalent to engaging in the type of sensationalism for which CalCoastNews has been criticized.

In fact, equating The Tribune’s fact-checking efforts with the controversy surrounding CalCoastNews undermines the importance of media accountability. Investigative journalism exists to verify, to challenge, and to bring clarity to the public discourse. When a media outlet chooses to publish dubious or outright false information, it is not only the right but the duty of other credible outlets to fact-check and expose any inconsistencies or misinformation.

Dismissing media fact-checking as mere theatrics does a disservice to the integrity of journalism. Media organizations must be as accountable to the truth as the public figures they cover. The more we encourage responsible media scrutiny, the better informed our communities will be. If journalism is to maintain its credibility, it cannot turn a blind eye to misinformation—no matter where it originates.

Aaron Ochs

Morro Bay

This article appears in Feb 6-16, 2025.