America is months away from an election unlike any other. Election denialism is increasing. Threats toward election workers are no longer rare but rather the norm. Disinformation is rampant. What does it all say about the state of our democracy – come November and beyond? “Fractured,” a project by Carnegie-Knight News21, explores that very question. All content is available free of charge here. Cronkite News will also feature stories from the project and make them available to clients this month.
American-ish Samoa: Debate persists over rights denied to millions from U.S. territories
SALT LAKE CITY – Nearly 4 million people live in the five inhabited U.S. territories, but their ability to participate in American democracy is limited. John Fitisemanu distinctly remembers the first time he read the U.S. Supreme Court rulings that deemed him unworthy of United States citizenship merely because of where he was born – the territory of American Samoa. He fought to compel the government to extend birthright citizenship to all American Samoans. Though he lost, debates persist over the rights extended to those born in U.S. territories.
Slug: News21-Fractured-Territorial Citizenship. By Eshaan Sarup/News21. 3,100 words. Note: An abridged version of 1,130 words is also available.
With 11 photos.
‘This will not be tolerated’: Americans grapple with AI’s influence on elections
CONCORD, N.H. — This year’s election marks the first amid the rapid rise of artificial intelligence, and that has regulators, lawmakers and voter advocates examining how best to regulate the technology to combat its misuse.
Slug: News21-Fractured-Rise of AI. By Kyle Chouinard/News21. 2,794 words. Note: An abridged version of 1,100 words is also available.
With 7 photos.
‘The most horrible day’: Those at the Capitol on Jan. 6 carry scars, shame, satisfaction
UUNDATED – The insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, will forever be remembered as one of the darkest days in American history. Four people who were there gave News21 access to their daily lives to share the enduring impact of that day. “You don’t want to tell people you’re a Jan. 6er,” one says.
Slug: News21-Fractured-After the Insurrection. Story by Lillie Boudreaux, Hudson French, Donovan Johnson and Ismael Lele/News21. Photos by Hudson French and Donovan Johnson. 2,200 words.
With photos.
Hero or villain? Experts and voters consider Trump’s lasting impact on democracy
BOISE, Idaho – It’s been a common refrain this election year: Democracy itself is at stake. Those assertions briefly abated after the July assassination attempt on Donald Trump, but a question nevertheless begs exploration: What is the former president’s lasting impact on American democracy? News21 takes a look.
Slug: News21-Fractured-Trump’s Legacy. By Lillie Boudreaux and Ismael Lele. 2,956 words. With video story and 17 photos. Note: An abridged version of 1,268 words is also available.
With: Photos by Hudson French, Donovan Johnson and Jordan Moore & Video by Josie Malave.
“We need to speak out and speak loud”: People of color battle targeted disinformation
Note: This story has a strong focus on Hispanic communities.
AUSTIN, Texas – Disinformation has surged in the U.S. and beyond and become an especially powerful threat during election years. Experts say immigrant communities and people of color are particular targets, as bad actors exploit political fears and ideologies and find these voters where they congregate – on messaging apps such as WeChat and WhatsApp.
Slug: News21-Fractured-Fighting Disinformation. By Eliana Alzate/News21. 1,956 words. Note: An abridged version of 1,020 words is also available.
With audio story and 10 photos.
Republicans and Democrats work to restore voter trust and faith in democracy
Note: This story has strong Arizona ties.
WOODRUFF, Wis. – From cross-partisan groups working in battleground states to off-the-record meetings of conservatives in Republican strongholds, new initiatives nationwide aim to restore trust in elections and shore up democracy. Don Henninger, the Republican co-lead of the Arizona Democracy Resilience Network, puts it this way: “It’s not an aisle anymore. It’s a canyon.”
Slug: News21-Fractured-Rebuilding Trust. By Romie Avivi Stuhl/News21. 2,712 words. Note: An abridged version of 1,028 words is also available.
With 9 photos.
America confronts election intimidation as political violence surges
Note: This story has a strong Arizona focus.
ROCHESTER HILLS, Mich. – Election intimidation became the norm after the 2020 election. To shore up democracy’s defenses this year, officials across the country are increasing training and implementing new protections, such as erecting ceiling-high fences to safeguard workers.
Slug: News21-Fractured-Increasing Intimidation. By Peggy Dodd, Pierce Gentry, Shelby Rickert and Olivia Talkington/News21. 3,488 words. Note: An abridged version of 1,233 words is also available.
With video story and 7 photos.
THIS WEEK IN NEWS
More migrants are coming from outside the Americas but Donald Trump’s claims of ‘military invasion’ by China are unfounded
WASHINGTON – Republicans have been warning that “military-aged” men have been crossing the Southwest border in threatening droves since President Joe Biden took office – especially from adversaries such as China and Russia. “It’s like a military invasion,” former President Donald Trump said at a rally in Tucson last week. “We are being conquered and we are being occupied by a foreign element. And you know, if you think about it, China has a 5 million man army.” Although migration from China has generally been rising, there is no evidence that Chinese and Russian citizens are crossing the border for military purposes, experts say.
Slug: Who Crosses Border. 880 words. By Mia Osmonbekov.
Photos available.
Maricopa County Recorder Stephen Richer addresses Arizona voter proof-of-citizenship snafu
WASHINGTON – A day after asking the Arizona Supreme Court to decide what to do about 98,000 registered voters who’ve never proven their U.S. citizenship, Maricopa County Recorder Stephen Richer offered assurances Wednesday. It’s not a sign of widespread cheating, he said, just a glitch involving drivers licenses issued before the state began requiring proof of citizenship. “The voters didn’t themselves do wrong in any way, shape or form,” he said in Washington after a McCain Institute forum on elections and disinformation.
Slug: 100,000 Arizona Voters. About 700 words. By Miguel Ambriz. File photos available.
Millions in federal aid for homeless students in Arizona schools, unspent after 3 years, about to expire
WASHINGTON – The Arizona Department of Education is scrambling to urge schools to tap millions of dollars earmarked to help homeless students before the funds expire at the end of the month. Three years ago, Arizona schools were allotted nearly $17 million in federal COVID-19 pandemic relief funds intended to provide resources ranging from temporary housing and transportation to prepaid debit cards. Nearly a quarter of that has gone unused, according to the most recent ADE data.
Slug: Homeless Money Unspent. 950 words. By Madeline Nguyen.
Photos available.
Spark the Spectrum empowers Arizona voters with disabilities after court ruling expands accessibility
PHOENIX – As the November general election approaches, Arizona is taking a significant step toward ensuring that voters with disabilities are fully prepared to participate in the democratic process. On Monday, First Place AZ and the Foundation for Blind Children co-hosted Spark the Spectrum, a workshop to equip voters with disabilities with the knowledge and tools needed for Election Day. The event, which aligned with National Voter Registration Day, was designed to familiarize attendees with voting equipment, accommodations and the overall voting process. It also served as a reminder of the Oct. 7 voter registration deadline.
Slug: Empowering Voters with Disabilities. 630 words. By Sienna Monea.
Photos available.
Endorsements from Parkland survivors group elevates gun debate in Arizona races that pit Democrats against NRA-backed Republicans
WASHINGTON – March For Our Lives, the group founded by survivors of a 2018 high school shooting rampage in Parkland, Florida, has thrown its weight behind Democrats in two contentious races in Arizona. In the fight for an open U.S. Senate seat, the group is backing U.S. Rep. Ruben Gallego of Phoenix over Kari Lake, and former state Sen. Kirsten Engel of Tucson, who is challenging first-term U.S. Rep. Juan Ciscomani, a Tucson Republican. March for Our Lives lauded Gallego’s support for universal background checks, expansion of mental health resources and a ban on “assault-style” weapons such as AK-47s and AR-15s.
Slug: Parkland Survivors Endorsements. 1,150 words. By Miguel Ambriz.
Photos available.
Havasupai Tribe continues to oppose controversial uranium mine as Energy Fuels assures safety
PHOENIX – Carletta Tilousi was a young girl when she first heard about possible uranium mining near her home of Supai. Deep within the canyons near the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, this is where the Havasupai people reside. From the day they were contacted about it, the Havasupai were resistant to uranium mining near their homelands. “Our tribal leaders were approached and told that if you support this effort, we will provide education and support your tribe, since this is near your sacred mountain and aboriginal territory, and the tribe said no, the council at the time said no,” Tilousi said. That was nearly 40 years ago, and now that same mine is finally operational. But Tilousi and the Havasupai are continuing the fight against the Pinyon Plain Mine near the Havasupai’s ancestral homelands. Tilousi serves on the White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council after previously serving 20 years on the Havasupai Tribal Council.
Slug: Uranium Mine Environment. 1,095 words. By Marshall Baker.
Photos available.
Activism and community building’: How LA artists spotlight social justice in their work
LOS ANGELES – In the heart of Los Angeles, art is more than a form of expression. Be it a blank brick wall or a stage under spotlights, artists here use every platform as a vehicle to amplify social discourse. Corie Mattie, aka “LA Hope Dealer,” an LGBTQ+ artist, is turning the street into her canvas, calling out local and national injustices. She is challenging social norms one bold stroke at a time. “I had to really take the things that speak to me. Being a woman, being gay and then there’s things that just aren’t fair,” Mattie said. “I have to speak out against it even if it doesn’t affect me. It’s just one of those things where I have to call attention to it.” The City of Angels has long been a cultural haven for aspiring creatives beyond film and entertainment. The street art on highway entrances or alley roads reflects the city’s rich history.
Slug: Social Justice Art LA. 1,375 words. By Brandelyn Clark.
Photos available.
Kari Lake has Donald Trump’s stamp of approval but Arizona polls show her lagging, with implications for U.S. Senate race
WASHINGTON – Kari Lake has consistently underperformed Donald Trump in Arizona, an anemic showing that spells trouble for Republicans hoping to nab the state’s open U.S. Senate seat. A Fox News poll of Arizona voters on Aug. 28 showed Lake lagging Democratic U.S. Rep. Ruben Gallego by 15 percentage points, even as the former president remained virtually tied with Vice President Kamala Harris in the presidential race. Other polls also find a persistent gap between Trump’s support and hers in Arizona, which bodes well for Democrats who would almost certainly lose control of the Senate without the Arizona seat. The Lake campaign rejects the accuracy of polls that show her trailing Gallego, though the apparent gap is no surprise to some Arizona political activists – including some who support Lake.
Slug: Anti-Lake Trump Voters. 1,300 words. By Phineas Hogan.
Photo available.
Navajos will press U.S. House to revive aid for victims of bomb fallout and uranium mines
WASHINGTON – Survivors of nuclear testing and uranium mines are ramping up pressure on Congress to reauthorize a federal compensation program that expired in June. Many of those afflicted since World War II are from the Navajo Nation, which is organizing a rally next week that will include prayers at the Capitol for radiation victims. “I want Congress to realize that it’s important and we need to pass this bill because some people did not get any … compensation,” said Maggie Billiman, whose father, a Navajo Code Talker during World War II, died of stomach cancer that she attributes to fallout from nuclear tests that settled over their hometown in Arizona. Much of her family has suffered from cancer, she said, and she looks forward to the ceremonial performances and prayers when activists converge at the Capitol on Sept. 24.
Slug: RECA Navajo Rally. 600 words. By Gabrielle Wallace.
File photos available.
ASU voter forum encourages college-aged voters to engage ahead of 2024 election
PHOENIX – With the 2024 election around the corner, droves of people are being pushed toward the polls this November. But and for many young voters, it has become difficult to remain engaged. Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. Tempe Alumnae Chapter urged college-aged voters to stay engaged and informed at its Youth Voter Forum on Sunday. “I just encourage everyone to vote,” said Keisha Tatem, Alumnae Chapter president. “I vote because there were people at one point in time that could not vote, and some people lost their life to make sure everyone in America had the right to vote. And so I vote to honor them, but also because I want to be in control. I want to have some control over my future, and so it’s important to know that that’s what voting can give you.” Panelists discussed the importance of media literacy and the ongoing battle with misinformation and democracy. Deepfakes, generative artificial intelligence and social media were discussed, highlighting the importance of credible information and working to make sure democracy is protected through an informed electorate.
Slug: Young Voter Forum. 750 words. By Hayden Larkin.
Photos, embeddable chart available.
THIS WEEK IN SPORTS
Diana Taurasi ponders future, Sophie Cunningham signs extension as Phoenix Mercury brace for WNBA playoffs
PHOENIX – Now that the Phoenix Mercury have locked up Sophie Cunningham through a contract extension, a larger question looms as the team embarks on the WNBA playoffs. Will longtime guard Diana Taurasi return for another season, or will the postseason mark the end of her heralded career in the Valley? “I don’t know,” Taurasi, 42, said after the Mercury’s win over the Los Angeles Sparks Tuesday. “The last couple of weeks it’s been a little nerve-wracking for myself. I don’t want to make any emotional (or) rash decisions. I know the end is near. When that is, I don’t know.”
Slug: Sports-Taurasi Mercury Future, 860 words. By Aya Abdeen.
Photo available.
The rise of Guardian Caps: Protecting players, reducing concussions but facing pushback
PHOENIX – Guardian Caps have shown promise in decreasing head injuries but face mixed reactions from players, coaches and experts regarding its effectiveness. The cap is a soft-shell cover made to wrap around the top of a helmet to reduce the force of impact from collisions that are generated in physical contact sports such as football and lacrosse and is worn by college and pro teams.
Slug: Sports-Guardian Caps. 1,620 words. By Patrick Holleron.
2 photos available.
Faith, family and football: Brophy College Prep star Cree Thomas proves he’s more than stats
PHOENIX— When searching for information about Cree Thomas, you’ll find highlights, four stars next to his name, All-State honors and a commitment to Notre Dame. But to Thomas and those around him at Brophy College Preparatory, he’s so much more than what his football profile shows. “Faith and family,” Thomas, a highly coveted senior cornerback, said when he was asked what is most important to him in life, also mentioning his role in the Black Student Union at Brophy.
Slug: Sports-Cree Thomas Notre Dame. 900 words. By Fletcher Anderson.
2 photos available.
Championship fever? Basha Bears charging toward football state title under coach Chris McDonald
CHANDLER – At Basha High School, nothing draws a larger crowd than when the Bears play under the Friday night lights at Jim Wall Stadium. The stands are packed with a few thousand fans, and as the Bears enter the field, the crowd’s roar is deafening. The fans expect success, and the Basha Bears under coach Chris McDonald have been one of the best success stories in all of Arizona high school football over the past few years. Not surprisingly, the Bears are off to a hot start in 2024 and have talent on both sides of the ball.
Slug: Sports-Basha Bears Football. 600 words. By Ethan Desjardine.
3 photos available.
Another magic moment? Phoenix Rising FC looks to replicate 2023 championship run
PHOENIX – Phoenix Rising FC has had an up-and-down season, but the numbers eerily replicate last year. With just eight games left in the regular season, the Rising look to defend their USL title. “We are happy with the chances we are creating, but we are ambitious to create more,” interim coach Diego Gomez said.
Slug: Sports-Phoenix Rising Statistical Outlook. 1,000 words. By Cooper Burns.
Photo available.
Betting boom: Arizona sports wagering poised for another record NFL season
PHOENIX – As the American Gaming Association projects record-breaking money to be wagered on the NFL this season, the Arizona Department of Gaming and local sportsbooks are prepared for increased wagers in-person and online. “In the past three years, cumulative total wagers have just surpassed $18.14 billion in Arizona,” said Dayne O’Brien, public information officer for the Arizona Department of Gaming. “That’s a pretty outstanding number. Pretty crazy and mind-blowing.”
Slug: Sports-Arizona NFL Betting. 750 words. By Brenden Paul.
Photo available.
Signs of the times: Arizona State football implements coach-to-player communication system
TEMPE – In the wake of Connor Stalions’ sign-stealing scandal at Michigan, the NCAA permitted FBS schools to use coach-to-player wireless communication. Arizona State is among the programs using the technology this season.
Slug: Sports-ASU New Football Tech. 623 words. By Tucker Sennett.
Photos available.
NASCAR Cup champion Ryan Blaney returns to Phoenix Raceway as track embraces community engagement
AVONDALE – As the host of two NASCAR stops, including the Cup Series Championship, Phoenix Raceway has emerged as one of the premier tracks on the circuit. Now it hopes to flex its charitable muscle as a key figure in the community, too. A recent luncheon at the track featured several drivers, including Cup Series champion Ryan Blaney, to recognize the 20th anniversary of the Drive for Diversity program. Additionally, the luncheon benefited the Fighter Country Foundation, a charity that helps those who have served at Luke Air Force Base. In November, Blaney finished second in the NASCAR Cup Series Championship race at Phoenix Raceway, giving the driver of the No. 12 Ford the title in NASCAR‘s premier series.
Slug: Sports-NASCAR Phoenix Raceway Charity. 700 words. By Cooper Burns.
3 photos available.
Road to a repeat: Phoenix Rising FC fighting to hold playoff position after Sacramento setback
PHOENIX – With only eight games left in the regular season, Phoenix Rising FC is battling to secure a playoff spot in the USL Championship. Despite Saturday’s 1-0 defeat to Sacramento Republic FC, the defending champions remain in seventh place in the Western Conference. The loss comes after a stretch of promising form, including two consecutive wins and five clean sheets in their last six matches. Interim coach Diego Gómez, who took over after the firing of Danny Stone, has been instrumental in turning Rising’s season around.
Slug: Sports-Phoenix Rising Postseason. 708 words. By Sebastian Mondaca.
Photo available.
‘Let’s do it again’: Phoenix Mercury aim to channel 2014 championship spirit for another title
PHOENIX – Phoenix Mercury center Brittney Griner and guard Diana Taurasi are the only two Mercury players who took part in their recent 10th-anniversary celebration of the franchise’s 2014 WNBA championship, who are still playing for the club. Toward the end of the ceremony, Taurasi told the crowd at Footprint Center, “Let’s do it again.”
Slug: Sports-Phoenix Mercury Reunion. 940 words. By Aya Abdeen.
Photo available.
‘That’s why we got him’: Cardinals reflect on dominate performances by Kyler Murray, Marvin Harrison Jr.
TEMPE – A day after Kyler Murray’s perfect performance and the domination of the Los Angeles Rams, running back James Conner and coach Jonathan Gannon took to the podium to sing his praises. Early Sunday afternoon, Harrison Jr. and Kyler Murray were at the top of their game as Murray threw for 266 yards, with 130 of those being pulled in by the young rookie sensation.
Slug: Sports-Cardinals Big Sunday. 600 words. By James Morel.
Photo available.
D-backups: Arizona Diamondbacks reserves come up big during hunt for playoffs
PHOENIX – Arizona Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo wasn’t surprised to see first baseman Christian Walker put up a two-home-run performance recently against the Texas Rangers. And he knew that second baseman Ketel Marte’s 3-for-4 day less than 24 hours later, which helped the team to a two-game sweep of Texas, was in the making. Marte and Walker, two cornerstones of Arizona’s infield, missed significant time with injuries, but Lovullo could afford to be patient.
Slug: Sports-Diamondbacks Playoff Hunt Reserves. 1,090 words. By Sean Brennan.
Photo available.
Old friends, tortillas and more: ASU prepares for first Big 12 game
TEMPE – Kenny Dillingham was quieter than usual in his Monday afternoon press conference. While his team reaped the rewards of a long weekend after Thursday’s 31-28 win over Texas State, the coach stayed hard at work. “Friday … I was in San Marcos, then went (from) San Marcos to San Antonio, saw five schools in San Antonio, then left San Antonio and went to El Paso,” he said about his recruiting whirlwind. “Saturday we had a day off, so I got to hang out with the little guy.” Such is the schedule of the modern college football coach. Between his team posting a 3-0 start for the first time since 2019 and being a dad, Dillingham doesn’t have time to slow down. His team doesn’t either.
Slug: Sports-ASU 3-0 Start. 560 words. By Tucker Sennett.
Photo available.
‘Forever family’: 2014 Phoenix Mercury championship team reunites to celebrate 10th anniversary
PHOENIX – In the decade following the Phoenix Mercury’s 2014 championship win, the members of that team have continued their basketball legacies both on and off the court. The Mercury celebrated the 10th anniversary of their third – and most recent – championship Friday after the team’s 88-69 home loss to the Connecticut Sun. It was the first time the team had reunited since Phoenix won the title 10 years ago. The reunion featured current players Diana Taurasi and Brittney Griner, former Mercury players who were members of the 2014 team – including star forward Penny Taylor – along with Connecticut wing DeWanna Bonner, who was a member of two Mercury championship teams, including the 2014 squad.
Slug: Sports-Phoenix Mercury Reunion. 800 words. By Anne-Marie Iemmolo.
3 photos available.
