Good morning,

You know the old saying—you don’t know what you’ve got 'til it’s gone.

Stop and think for a moment: What would the news media look like if RealClearPolitics and its sister sites were suddenly gone, or reduced to a shell of what they are today?

If we had to rely exclusively on advertising, that would be our fate.

Our editorial approach hasn’t changed since we first published 23 years ago. Seven days a week, we present all sides of America’s important political questions and policy issues. That’s the RealClear model. But the advertising world around us has changed—and not for the better. Like so many areas of life that were once largely apolitical, advertising today is heavily influenced by politics and ideology.

Under the guise of combatting so-called “disinformation,” groups such as Global Disinformation Index (GDI) are working behind the scenes to push ad boycotts of news organizations. They are targeting news outlets from left, right, and center that are willing to publish contrarian voices on controversial issues.

What they call “disinformation,” we call viewpoint diversity.

While we’ve seldom reached out directly to our subscribers for support in the past, we’re now counting on you to help make up for attacks on our advertising revenue, which has fallen by millions of dollars.

RealClear readers like you don’t feel threatened by reading opposing views, including those you disagree with personally. You recognize that understanding opposing arguments fosters a healthy democracy and is vital for citizens who want to be genuinely informed. I hear this from our supporters all the time.

Check out some of the notes I’ve received in recent days from readers who have made a gift to help keep the lights on at RealClear.
 

I depend on RealClear for balance and accuracy. – Bo, Long Beach, CA

I read RealClearPolitics at least 3 times weekly because it gives me access to some of my favorite writers, some writers that infuriate me but make me think and some that I probably wouldn't have access to without RCP. – Carolyn, San Antonio, TX

I like to read multiple perspectives and make up my own mind about issues. – David, Durham, NC

You're a rare news/media outlet these days that provides content from multiple viewpoints. – Chris, Altus, OK

It's more than rare that a media site would cover both sides of an issue. Most assuredly, each viewer is equally dissatisfied, which is perfect. - John, Darien, CT

RCP is essential to the well-being and future of the USA. – Clark, East Orleans, MA