Why I Write Biased News Articles
Hear me out
When I decided to start a political newsletter/blog, I worried about my own bias. After all, I have personal convictions and political leanings that would likely leech into my work.
Now, I had two options:
Squash those beliefs and paint my Substack with splashy slogans about “independent coverage” and “non-partisan news”
Embrace those personal views and offer commentary and coverage peppered with my opinion
Both are valid options but you’ve seen them a hundred times. We don’t need more people offering their unique take by bashing the “other side”. Same with supposedly independent coverage from someone who’s just hiding a pretty obvious bias.
So I chose to craft a third option.
Search for balance through bias and write for every side of a political argument
Admittedly, it’s a strange idea at face value and I’ve done my fair share of explaining. Basically, my idea was to pick a side (Democrat) and use all sorts of subtle techniques to push that narrative.
The next article, I’d be back with an opposite spin (Republican) on some more current events.
The most stark example of this was early on when I argued Why Trump Is A Hero & Not Fascist. The next day I was back with another article arguing Why Trump Is A Scumbag & Fascist.
As a writer, it was fun to go on a whole rant about why Trump is not fascist and then completely switch gears to try and prove he is.
Obviously, politics is not nearly so simple as divides like pro-Trump and anti-Trump. That’s why I explore the ideoligical perspective with some centrist, independent or third-party spin.
Essentially, I’m a defense lawyer for ideas. I write about the political circus from all corners of the tent and have a blast doing it.
But why do I write these biased articles?
From a personal perspective, it’s great for my own growth. It forces me to consider the strongest arguments for any given side and then subtly push a certain view in my work.
Manipulating my writing to push a certain narrative has taught me the tricks of the trade and how to recognise biased media in my everyday life. I’m a more balanced person because I better understand why people believe the things they do.
But how does it benefit readers? Well, I’d say there are three main pillars.
Bias Training
Argument Exposure
Respectful Understanding
1. Bias Training
Critical thinking begins with spotting the subtle ways media can manipulate us. Media bias is pervasive, and my articles are designed to make spotting these tactics a bit of a game.
Some readers love digging in to uncover the bias woven into my pieces. Even if you’re a casual reader, you’ll soon start noticing the same techniques in other media you consume.
This is a powerful skill.
When you read an article, you might start questioning the way issues are presented, quotes framed, or individuals described. With this experience, you’ll see right through biased narratives.
2. Argument Exposure
The best thinkers don’t just know their own views—they explore the strongest arguments from every perspective. It’s the key to personal growth and critical thinking.
Armed with a nuanced understanding, you might challenge an opponent’s stance, win over a friend, or even reevaluate your own beliefs.
Learning why people believe what they do is a vital part of becoming a more balanced, intelligent citizen.
3. Respectful Understanding
Listening genuinely to opposing viewpoints cultivates respect. A more peaceful political climate starts with realizing that people who disagree aren’t fools—they’re seeing things through a different lens.
I aim to bridge that gap by showcasing the reasoning behind views across the political spectrum.
This isn’t about changing minds for the sake of it. It’s certainly not about compromising your beliefs. It’s simply acknowledging the complexity of different perspectives as any stance can feel persuasive when it’s pushed repeatedly.
This empathy leads to a more respectful society and more productive debate.
I’ll be the first to admit this publication isn’t perfect—and it sure sparks plenty of debate!
I’m still perfecting this biased journalism and have a long way to go. But I truly believe that my unique blend of news coverage brings value and I hope you do too.
If this concept sounds interesting, I’d love to have you on board! Stay tuned for plenty more biased articles on the latest and greatest political news.