LEFT BIAS
These media sources are moderate to strongly biased toward liberal causes through story selection and/or political affiliation. They may utilize strong loaded words (wording that attempts to influence an audience by appealing to emotion or stereotypes), publish misleading reports, and omit information that may damage liberal causes. Some sources in this category may be untrustworthy. See all Left Bias sources.
- Overall, we rate The Sprawl as Left-Biased due to its consistent focus on progressive policy positions. We also rate its reporting as High for factual accuracy based on editorial transparency and good sourcing practices.
Detailed Report
Bias Rating: LEFT (-6.0)
Factual Reporting: HIGH (1.8)
Country: Canada
MBFC’s Country Freedom Rating: MOSTLY FREE
Media Type: Organization/Foundation
Traffic/Popularity: Minimal Traffic
MBFC Credibility Rating: HIGH CREDIBILITY
History
The Sprawl is a local journalism outlet based in Calgary, Alberta. It provides community-centered reporting on civic affairs, urban development, the environment, and social justice. The Sprawl is a member of Press Forward, a collective of independent Canadian media outlets.
Read our profile on the Canadian government and media.
Funded by / Ownership
The Sprawl is an independent, donor-funded media organization that relies on reader memberships rather than advertising or corporate backing. As a nonprofit model, it aligns closely with other Press Forward outlets focused on sustainability and public-interest reporting.
Analysis / Bias
The Sprawl’s editorial focus and issue selection lean toward a progressive worldview. For example:
- “Calgary’s Tree Canopy Is a Justice Issue” links urban forestry and climate justice with equity and access concerns.
- “The End of Easy Re-Elections in Calgary” scrutinizes incumbent power and calls for increased accountability in civic elections.
- “Progressive City Council Candidates in Calgary” highlights left-leaning municipal candidates, presenting them favorably and without substantial counterbalance.
Articles often frame issues through a lens of social equity, climate responsibility, and public accountability. While the reporting is fact-based and supported by interviews and data, the outlet’s story selection and framing emphasize progressive solutions and underrepresented voices. This places it clearly within the Left-Leaning bias category.
Failed Fact Checks
- None in the Last 5 years
Overall, we rate The Sprawl as Left-Biased due to its consistent focus on progressive policy positions. We also rate its reporting as High for factual accuracy based on editorial transparency and good sourcing practices. (M. Huitsing 05/26/2025)
Source: https://www.sprawlcalgary.com/
Last Updated on May 26, 2025 by Media Bias Fact Check
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