This page describes our editorial standards — how we source stories, how we handle conflicts of interest, and how we respond when we get something wrong.
Sourcing
We name sources whenever possible. We grant anonymity only when:
- The source could face retaliation for speaking to us
- The source is in a vulnerable position (a whistleblower, a victim of crime, a person in recovery)
- The information is unverifiable by other means and the source’s identity is essential to its credibility
When we use anonymous sources, we say so in the story. We tell readers, in general terms, why we granted anonymity.
We do not pay sources for information. We pay reporters for stories we’ve published.
Verification
Every claim of fact in a WACN 21 story is verified by the reporter with at least one source before publication. Where possible, we link to primary documents — court filings, budget documents, public records, video, audio — so readers can verify our reporting themselves.
We do not publish rumors or unverified reports.
Conflicts of interest
WACN 21 reporters and editors disclose any financial, personal, or professional relationship that could reasonably be perceived to influence their coverage. Disclosures are reviewed by the editor-in-chief.
We do not allow reporters to own stock in companies they cover. We do not allow reporters to accept gifts, meals, or travel from people or organizations they cover, except in clearly defined circumstances (e.g., a press tour where every outlet is invited).
Corrections
When we get a fact wrong, we publish a correction at the top of the affected story. The correction is dated, signed, and describes what changed and why. Our corrections are also archived at /corrections.
We distinguish between corrections (factual errors) and clarifications (we had the right facts but didn’t explain them clearly). Both are labeled and signed.
We do not silently change published stories except to fix typos, broken links, and similar minor issues. Any substantive change to a published story is logged in our internal system.
AI-assisted reporting
We use AI tools in our reporting and editing workflow. We disclose when AI was used in a way that materially contributed to a story. We do not use AI to generate images or illustrations without clearly labeling them as such. We do not use AI to fabricate quotes, sources, or facts.
Right of reply
When we publish a story that includes allegations or criticism of a person or organization, we give that person or organization a reasonable opportunity to respond before publication. Their response is included in the story.
When a person or organization asks for a correction or a right of reply after publication, we review the request seriously and respond in a timely manner.
Sponsorship and funding
WACN 21 is reader-supported. We do not accept advertising from candidates in active elections. We do not accept sponsorship for specific stories. Editorial decisions are made by the editorial team, independent of the business side.
If you’d like to verify any of this, email us at hello@wacn21.com.