LEFT-CENTER BIAS
These media sources have a slight to moderate liberal bias. They often publish factual information that utilizes loaded words (wording that attempts to influence an audience by appealing to emotion or stereotypes) to favor liberal causes. These sources are generally trustworthy for information but may require further investigation. See all Left-Center sources.
- Overall, we rate Current.org as left-center biased due to its focus on public media and coverage that often supports the sustainability and values of public broadcasting. Its factual reporting is rated High, reflecting its adherence to journalistic standards and well-sourced content.
Detailed Report
Bias Rating: LEFT-CENTER (-3.0)
Factual Reporting: HIGH (0.5)
Country: USA
MBFC’s Country Freedom Rating: MOSTLY FREE
Media Type: Website
Traffic/Popularity: Minimal Traffic
MBFC Credibility Rating: HIGH CREDIBILITY
History
Current.org is a nonprofit news organization established in 1980, dedicated to covering the U.S. public media system, including public radio, television, and digital media. It serves as a trade publication for professionals in public broadcasting, providing news, analysis, and commentary on industry trends, policy developments, and organizational changes. They are based in Washington, DC.
Read our profile on the United States media and government.
Funded by / Ownership
Current is published by the American University School of Communication and operates as an editorially independent service. According to its About page, Current receives funding from a combination of sources, including individual donations, subscriptions, and grants from foundations. Notable funders include the Ford Foundation, the Annie E. Casey Foundation, and the Knight Foundation. The organization also offers subscription plans through its Subscribe page, providing individuals and institutions access to its content.
Analysis / Bias
Current exhibits a Left-Leaning bias, primarily due to its focus on public media and coverage that often highlights issues such as diversity, equity, and inclusion. The organization’s reporting tends to support the value of public broadcasting and often critiques policies or actions that threaten its funding or independence.
For example, in the article “New York increases public radio support amid CPB funding threat”, Current reports on state-level efforts to bolster public media funding in response to potential federal cuts. Similarly, the piece “LAist lays off eight staffers, citing federal funding uncertainty” discusses the impact of funding instability on local public media outlets. In “Experts say Trump’s CPB order should have no legal effect”, Current analyzes a policy move by the Trump administration, providing expert opinions on its potential implications.
Additionally, Current promotes diversity within public media through its Diversity series, which showcases efforts to increase representation and inclusivity in the industry. While the organization’s reporting is generally balanced and well-sourced, its editorial choices reflect a commitment to the principles and sustainability of public media, aligning it with progressive values.
Failed Fact Checks
- None in the Last 5 years
Overall, we rate Current.org as left-center biased due to its focus on public media and coverage that often supports the sustainability and values of public broadcasting. Its factual reporting is rated High, reflecting its adherence to journalistic standards and well-sourced content. (D. Van Zandt 05/15/2025)
Source: https://current.org/
Last Updated on May 15, 2025 by Media Bias Fact Check
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Left vs. Right Bias: How we rate the bias of media sources