Real journalism vs opinion — are we getting played?

In today’s media landscape, the difference between local and national news coverage can be stark. While local news tends to be straightforward, national news often stirs emotions, leaving many feeling angry or frustrated. For military veterans, understanding why this happens and how to navigate it is crucial.

Veterans are familiar with tactics designed to confuse or manipulate, and the media is no exception. Anger and fear are powerful tools used to sway public opinion. That’s why it’s essential to distinguish between trustworthy news sources and those that may be trying to manipulate your emotions.

When consuming news, it’s important to ask, “What’s the source?” Are you hearing from reporters striving for fairness, or from opinionated voices acting more like lawyers building a case? Reliable sources like the Associated Press and Reuters are known for their balanced reporting, making them good benchmarks for accuracy.

Not all information sources are created equal, and some are heavily biased. The most reliable ones often fall in the middle of the spectrum, where sensationalism is low, and the focus is on facts rather than fearmongering. While these sources might not be the most exciting, they provide the clear, unembellished information that veterans are trained to analyze.

Social media, in particular, is a minefield of misinformation. It’s easy to get caught up in sensational posts from unknown sources. But just as veterans defended the country from threats before, they can continue to do so by not sharing or spreading false information.

Veterans are encouraged to stay aware, vigilant, and critical of the news they consume. By doing so, they can ensure they are informed by facts, not by those looking to manipulate their emotions.