The Journal News, a New York-based newspaper owned by Gannett, is requesting financial support from readers, citing insufficient advertising revenue to sustain its independent journalism. The appeal, published on the newspaper’s website, emphasizes its commitment to “accurate and meaningful journalism” and its role in providing unbiased news.
The request comes as the media landscape continues to evolve, with traditional revenue models facing increasing challenges. Gannett, the largest newspaper chain in the USA following its 2019 merger with GateHouse Media, relies on a combination of advertising and paid subscriptions to fund its operations, including The Journal News, which serves Westchester, Rockland, and Putnam counties in New York’s Lower Hudson Valley.
According to a Media Bias/Fact Check assessment, The Journal News exhibits a “slight to moderate liberal bias,” occasionally employing “loaded words” to favor progressive causes. However, the assessment as well rates the publication as “High” for factual reporting, citing proper sourcing and a clean record regarding fact-checking. The Journal News was founded in 1852.
Biasly’s Media Bias Chart, updated February 26, 2026, categorizes news outlets based on bias and reliability. Whereas Biasly’s specific rating for The Journal News was not provided in the search results, the chart illustrates a spectrum of political leanings among U.S. News organizations.
A Techworm.net list of the “10 Most Unbiased News Sources in 2026” includes The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times, both national publications, alongside wire services like the Associated Press and Reuters, and broadcasters such as BBC News and NBC News. The Journal News was not included on this list.
The Journal News’ editorial positions lean left, according to Media Bias/Fact Check, but the publication has not had any failed fact-checks in the last five years. The newspaper covers local news, sports, lifestyle, and entertainment, supplementing its local reporting with national and international news from Gannett publications and the Associated Press.
Gannett has not publicly announced any immediate plans to alter The Journal News’ operations beyond the fundraising appeal. The company has not responded to requests for comment regarding the financial pressures facing the newspaper.
