As the editor of an independent online news publication, I have seen how easily audiences can confuse factual reporting, news analysis, and personal opinion. These forms of journalism can look nearly identical on television and digital platforms, even though they serve very different purposes.

News organizations have the right to report, analyze events, and express opinions. Viewers also deserve to know which kind of content they are receiving.

Congress should pass a News Transparency Act requiring television and digital news broadcasters to display clear, standardized labels identifying programming as:

NEWS REPORTING — Reporting based primarily on verified information and attributed sources.

NEWS ANALYSIS — Context, interpretation, or analysis based on reported events and evidence.

OPINION/COMMENTARY — Personal viewpoints, advocacy, editorial arguments, or political commentary.

These labels should remain reasonably visible during the program rather than appearing briefly at the beginning or being buried in a description.

This proposal would apply equally to every network, platform, political viewpoint, and ideological perspective. It would not prohibit speech, regulate opinions, or empower the government to decide which political claims are acceptable. It would simply require broadcasters to tell viewers what type of programming they have chosen to present.

Food packaging carries labels. Advertising must often be identified as advertising. News audiences deserve comparable transparency when reporting, analysis, and opinion are presented using the same anchors, studios, graphics, and breaking-news formats.

Clear labels would help viewers evaluate what they watch, encourage more responsible media practices, and strengthen public understanding without silencing anyone.

Please sign this petition and urge Congress to introduce and pass a News Transparency Act establishing clear labeling standards for television and digital news programming.