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Resource categories

Use these starting points to research claims, track policy, and understand influence. We update this list as new tools emerge.

Fact-checking & verification

Cross-check headlines with multiple sources, review primary documents, and look for transparent corrections policies.


Public records & transparency

Find budgets, contracts, meeting minutes, and filings. When possible, go to the original source before commentary.


Follow the money

Track campaign finance, lobbying activity, and political advertising to understand incentives and influence.


Civic participation

Register, contact officials, attend meetings, and learn how local decisions are made—especially where you live.

How to use these resources

A simple workflow for reading the news critically—without getting overwhelmed.

1) Start with the claim

Write down the exact statement, date, and who said it. Vague claims are hard to verify.


2) Find the primary source

Look for the bill text, report, dataset, transcript, or court filing—then read the relevant section.


3) Check incentives & funding

Who benefits? Review donors, lobbying disclosures, and ad spend to map pressure points.


4) Share responsibly

Link sources, separate facts from opinions, and invite good-faith discussion in the comments.


Resources FAQ

Quick answers to common questions about using this page.

Are these resources partisan?

We aim for tools that prioritize primary sources, transparency, and clear methodology. When a resource has a perspective, we note it and encourage cross-checking.

Do you link to official government sources?

Yes—whenever possible we recommend starting with official documents (budgets, bills, filings, meeting minutes) and then reading analysis from multiple viewpoints.

How do I verify a viral claim quickly?

Identify the original clip or quote, confirm the date/location, and look for the primary document or full transcript. If it’s a statistic, find the dataset and definitions.

What if I find a broken link or a better tool?

Send it through Contact with the URL and why it’s useful. We review suggestions regularly.

Can I submit my own research or documents?

Yes—use Share Your Story to submit a tip, personal experience, or source list. Please include links and context.

Is anything here legal advice?

No. This page is for informational purposes only. For legal guidance, consult a qualified professional in your jurisdiction.