Seattle Times Support the Press

ONE STORY CAN DRIVE CHANGE he Seattle Times’ rigorously reported investigative journalism digs deep to expose injustice, fight corruption and right wrongs. Our stories have changed lives and public policy and resulted in action at the highest levels of government. We revealed the decades of warning signs preceding the Oso landslide, resulting in a bill requiring Washington state to share mapping of geologic hazards that threaten its citizens. We exposed double-booked surgeries and staff turmoil at a prominent Seattle hospital, leading to state and federal investigations, the hospital CEO’s resignation, suspension of a surgeon’s medical license, and widespread reform — including largely banning overlapping surgeries — to protect future patients. The Seattle Times exposed Washington state’s financially motivated routine prescription of a deadly painkiller that saved money, but cost lives. Following our coverage, the state changed its policy to use methadone only as a last resort. We investigated a cluster of rare, fatal birth defects in Central Washington that resulted in an infant mortality rate five times higher than the national average, and we highlighted the FDA’s years-long delay to add a supplement that would prevent them. Lawmakers saw the story and pressured the FDA to finally take action, which they did, allowing folic acid fortification of corn masa flour, effective immediately. Our investigative reporters uncovered the sometimes deadly abuse of thousands of vulnerable seniors in adult homes, resulting in a review of the industry and seven new Washington state laws protecting the elderly from the problems our coverage revealed. Seattle Times investigations hold those in power accountable. We ask the questions that deserve to be answered, and we ask them in as many ways as we can until we get to an answer. Managing Editor Ray Rivera explains, “It is what holds our elected officials accountable. It is what allows for a free exchange of ideas. Free press is at the cornerstone of our democracy.” Executive Editor Michele Matassa Flores adds, “Finding the information that no one wants anybody to see, it’s the most important thing we can do.” “We put so much time into our investigative stories, and so much effort into getting it right, and all of that is with an eye toward inspiring change. It’s how we can best serve our readers and the people of our region.” Ray Rivera, managing editor See how our dogged pursuit of the truth plays a vital role in the safety and accountability of our region. seattletimes.com/supportthepress#truth