Former New York Times executive editor Dean Baquet believes the erosion of local journalism is helping drive America’s civic and political divisions.

In this conversation recorded at Local Media Fest 2026 in Chicago, Baquet explains why strong local reporting gives communities a shared identity, helps residents understand the decisions affecting their lives and strengthens democracy.

Baquet also shares a lesson local newsrooms can take from The New York Times: Ask what journalism you can provide every day that your audience cannot get anywhere else. He discusses the need for news organizations to communicate their value, become more transparent about editorial decisions and own their mistakes.

Baquet now leads The New York Times’ Local Investigations Fellowship, supporting reporters pursuing ambitious accountability journalism in communities across the country.

In this episode:

• Why the erosion of local news affects the entire country

• What local publishers can learn from The New York Times

• How news deserts weaken accountability

• Why communities must financially support local journalism

• How transparency can rebuild audience trust

• Baquet’s work supporting local investigative reporters

Keep It Local is a podcast of Local Media Association, hosted by Ryan Welton. If you'd like to be a guest on the podcast, or if you'd like to sponsor it — email Lindsey Estes at lindsey.estes@localmedia.org and Ryan Welton at ryan.welton@localmedia.org.