What Next | Daily News and Analysis Plus: Amy Goodman of Democracy Now—More than Ever
May 1, 2026
Amy Goodman, independent journalist and long‑time Democracy Now! anchor known for frontline reporting, recalls surviving the 1991 Santa Cruz massacre and fighting access-driven journalism. Short, sharp conversations cover refusing cozy White House rituals, questioning U.S. arms sales, and how on-the-ground reporting pressured policy changes. Tense press-room confrontations and the risks of reporting are highlighted.
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Access Journalism Trades Truth For Proximity
- Access journalism often trades truth for proximity to power.
- Amy Goodman argues softball questions win access but not trust, so tough reporting can and should happen without cozy access.
Persist In Asking Tough Questions
- Avoid cozying up to power and prioritize rigorous questioning over access.
- Amy Goodman recommends numbness to peer pressure in press corps and persistence in asking tough, specific questions even if mocked.
Surviving The Santa Cruz Massacre In East Timor
- Amy Goodman witnessed the Santa Cruz massacre in East Timor on November 12, 1991 and survived violent attacks by Indonesian soldiers.
- She and Alan Nairn filmed as soldiers opened fire, Alan protected her, and they were beaten and held at gunpoint before being released as Americans.