Editorial Standards & Ethics
Our journalism is only as strong as the standards behind it. At TRN, we built our editorial code around a simple idea: people deserve news they can trust, explained in language they can actually use.
Our core principles:
1. Accuracy before virality.
2. Clarity over jargon.
3. Transparency instead of mystery.
4. Independence from partisan or corporate influence.
How we report:
• We verify information with multiple, credible sources whenever possible.
• We rely on documents, public records, reputable data, and on‑the‑record interviews.
• We clearly indicate what is confirmed, what is still developing, and what is uncertain.
• We avoid vague sourcing and do not present rumors as facts.
Use of anonymous sources:
Anonymous sources may be used in limited situations, such as protecting whistleblowers or individuals facing real risk for speaking. When we grant anonymity, editors require a clear public‑interest reason and must know the identity and motivation of the source. We do not allow anonymous quotes to be used for personal attacks or to launder talking points.
Fairness and context:
We aim to represent issues in a way that is honest and proportional. That includes:
• Seeking comment from people or institutions who are the subject of critical coverage.
• Providing historical or policy context so readers are not misled by isolated facts.
• Avoiding headlines or thumbnails that distort the substance of the story.
Corrections and updates:
If we publish something inaccurate, incomplete, or misleading, we correct it as quickly and as clearly as possible. Significant corrections are labeled visibly on the article page. When stories evolve, we update them with new information and note what has changed.
Separation of news, analysis, and opinion:
• News explains what happened, based on reporting.
• Analysis adds expert insight and careful interpretation of facts.
• Opinion clearly reflects a specific argument or point of view and is labeled as such.
Conflicts of interest:
Staff members must disclose personal, financial, or family connections that could affect their coverage. Reporters and editors are not allowed to take money, gifts, or favors from sources or subjects of stories.
Use of AI and automation:
We may use automation and AI tools to assist with research, organization, or initial drafting. However, no story is published without human review, editing, and accountability. AI‑generated text or images are never used to depict real events or people without disclosure.
Visual and data standards:
Charts, images, and graphics must reflect reality, not manipulate it. We avoid misleading scales, deceptive cropping, and out‑of‑context visuals. Data must come from sources our editors can examine and explain to readers.
These standards are living commitments. As the news environment changes, we will revisit and refine this code — but the core promise remains the same: TRN exists to help you understand the world with honest, clearly explained reporting.