Media, Politics, and the Fight for Democracy: Jennifer Rubin on Public Engagement in a Critical Election Year
March 12, 2025 | Can Democracy and a Free Press Survive Billionaire Ownership of Major Media?
In a recent America at a Crossroads discussion, journalist and political commentator Jennifer Rubin explored the intersection of media, politics, and public engagement in today’s volatile political climate. A former Washington Post columnist and co-founder of The Contrarian, Rubin has long been an outspoken advocate for democratic values and journalistic integrity. During the conversation, she addressed the challenges facing traditional media, the role of billionaire-owned outlets in shaping public perception, and the urgent need for civic participation as the United States approaches a critical election year.
The Political Landscape: A Democracy at Risk
As the 2024 election approaches, Rubin warned that the stakes for democracy have never been higher. With Donald Trump securing the Republican nomination and corporate interests aligning behind him, she expressed deep concerns over media complacency in holding power accountable.
She pointed out that historically, the media has operated under the assumption that both major political parties share a basic commitment to democratic governance. However, in her view, this framework no longer applies. The rise of authoritarian tendencies within the Republican Party, coupled with efforts to undermine democratic institutions, demands a more direct response from journalists and political leaders.
Rubin noted that powerful media owners, including Jeff Bezos, have taken steps that appear to appease Trump and his allies. She cited The Washington Post’s refusal to endorse Vice President Kamala Harris, a decision that sparked outrage among readers and led to mass subscription cancellations. She also highlighted the increasing willingness of major corporations to support Trump, despite his threats to democratic norms, as a troubling sign of political and financial alignment.
The Role of Media: Holding Power Accountable or Falling in Line?
Beyond corporate influence, Rubin discussed the broader failings of traditional media in today’s political environment. She argued that mainstream outlets often fail to properly contextualize the dangers posed by Trump and his allies, instead opting for false equivalency in their reporting. This “both sides” approach, she warned, misleads the public by suggesting that democratic backsliding is simply a matter of partisan disagreement rather than an existential crisis.
She also pointed to the growing influence of independent journalism as a counterbalance to corporate media’s shortcomings. Platforms like Substack, where she co-founded The Contrarian, provide journalists with a direct line to readers, free from editorial interference. Similarly, nonprofit journalism organizations such as ProPublica have stepped in to fill gaps left by traditional newsrooms, conducting investigative reporting that holds government officials and corporations accountable.
Public Engagement: The Key to Protecting Democracy
While the state of traditional media is concerning, Rubin remained optimistic about the power of public engagement. She emphasized that democracy is not a passive system—it requires active participation from citizens. She cited recent examples where grassroots activism has influenced political decision-making, including the pushback against a controversial budget resolution in the Senate.
According to Rubin, social media and independent journalism have played a significant role in mobilizing voters and shaping public discourse. By amplifying critical issues, independent platforms have pressured lawmakers to take stronger stances against authoritarian encroachments. She urged citizens to take an active role in their communities by staying informed, attending town halls, supporting credible news sources, and participating in elections at all levels.
She also noted the importance of culture in sustaining democracy. Quoting Václav Havel, she highlighted the role of art, film, and literature in shaping political awareness. At The Contrarian, she and her team cover not only politics but also cultural issues, using entertainment and lifestyle topics as entry points to engage audiences in deeper discussions about democracy.
A Critical Moment for Democracy
As the conversation concluded, Rubin reinforced the idea that democracy’s survival depends on an informed and engaged public. The challenges posed by corporate media influence, authoritarian rhetoric, and political apathy require vigilance and collective action.
She urged readers to support independent journalism, engage in their communities, and recognize that every election—no matter how small—contributes to the broader fight for democratic stability.
“Democracy is a participatory sport,” Rubin emphasized. “We can’t sit back and hope things get better. We have to be the ones to make them better.”
As the 2024 election draws closer, her message is clear: the media, political leaders, and everyday citizens all have a role to play in protecting democratic values. The question is whether enough people will take up the challenge before it’s too late.
About America at a Crossroads
Since April 2020, America at a Crossroads has produced weekly virtual programs on topics related to the preservation of our democracy, voting rights, freedom of the press, and a wide array of civil rights, including abortion rights, free speech, and free press. America at a Crossroads is a project of Jews United for Democracy & Justice.