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This column reflects the opinion of the writer. Learn about the differences between a news story and an opinion column.

Fact check Trump

The role of the press in our democracy is to provide factual information to the electorate. It is critical that citizens have access to accurate information so that they can make informed decisions.

At a time when our president is regularly attacking the media as a source of “fake news,” it is even more important that the press provide correct information and fact check statements made by our elected officials. During President Trump’s press conference on Feb. 16, he made numerous statements that were factually incorrect. The Associated Press immediately fact-checked these statements. Unfortunately, The Spokesman-Review did not provide that information. In fact, the story was headlined with one of his factually incorrect statements.

I expect more from my newspaper. Outlandish, inaccurate and untruthful statements fuel the flames of reactivity and hostility in this country. Be the press we need you to be.

Audrey Burr

Spokane

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