How the evening news showed graphic content during the Chauvin trial

Graphic content can make or break a broadcast. Too much disturbing content risks desensitizing viewers, while omitting upsetting footage risks having inauthentic coverage. The Derek Chauvin trial was filled with disturbing evidence, which challenged CBS, ABC and NBC to decide…

Coverage holes and the perception of bias

These days the cry of “bias” is commonplace around news coverage. Excessive commentary and analysis contribute to this tendency. However, it’s also because some outlets have leaned into the era of “fake news.” Combating this perception from some audiences requires…

Framing the future on the day of the Derek Chauvin verdicts

Derek Chauvin’s conviction in the murder of George Floyd signaled a win for accountability of police officers and justice for victims. And that’s how the three main evening news broadcasts covered it. However, Floyd’s death is not an isolated incident.…

Helping the homeless: How Maryland is attempting to vaccinate one of its most vulnerable communities

Those experiencing homlessness are an extremely vulnerable community, during a pandemic, they’re at even greater risk. Here’s how Maryland is trying to combat the problem.

Maryland lawmakers wrap up 2021 session with pandemic aid; reforms to police, betting

The Maryland General Assembly operated like never before in 2021 but still passed significant measures that included a multi-billion dollar COVID-19 relief plan, historic police reform, legalized sports wagering, and a wave of overrides of the governor’s vetoes.

Bill to repeal Maryland state song advancing in Legislature

A bill that would repeal Maryland’s state song “Maryland, My Maryland!” on the grounds it contains offensive and outdated language is advancing in the Legislature this week.

COVID means many more responsibilities for the oldest child

Across the country, students face challenges with virtual school, but many teenagers are burdened with additional responsibilities because they are the oldest child.

As saltwater resculpts the East Coast, researchers say it can’t be stopped but we can adapt

From the mid-Atlantic to the Gulf of Mexico, salt is killing groves of trees from the roots up. Advancing water is pressing landowners and farmers into wrenching decisions and is challenging conservationists to find corridors for marshes to survive.

Disconnected: Students struggle with e-learning obstacles, lawmakers earmark solutions

Students say hotspots and low-cost internet packages don’t bridge the digital divide in two of Maryland’s least-connected districts. Lawmakers and state officials say it’s time for a statewide approach and to start considering internet access as a basic utility.

Voters in GOP-majority county head to polls in ‘blue’ Maryland

The state’s gateway to the Eastern Shore has voted for a Republican candidate in the last five presidential elections.