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what happened to truthdig ?

**The Rise and Fall of Truthdig: A Progressive Media Casualty**

In the ever-evolving landscape of digital media, few platforms have made as significant an impact as Truthdig, a progressive news website that emerged in 2005. Founded by Zuade Kaufman and Robert Scheer, Truthdig quickly became a beacon for in-depth, left-leaning journalism, offering a unique blend of long-form articles, interviews, and commentary. Its mission was to delve beneath the headlines, uncovering stories often overlooked by mainstream media.

However, by March 2020, Truthdig faced an unexpected crisis. A work stoppage initiated by its staff and contributors signaled underlying tensions between Kaufman and Scheer. This dispute culminated in the abrupt layoffs of the entire staff, including prominent figures like Chris Hedges, who had secured funding for his position. The sudden shutdown left many in the progressive community reeling, questioning the stability of independent media.

The events leading to Truthdig’s demise were marked by a clash of visions. Kaufman, as publisher, and Scheer, as editor-in-chief, had differing views on the site’s direction, which eventually led to a breakdown in communication and trust. The work stoppage was a last-ditch effort by the staff to address grievances, but it ultimately resulted in their termination.

The closure of Truthdig highlights the challenges faced by independent media outlets, particularly those with a progressive agenda. Financial pressures, internal conflicts, and the struggle to maintain editorial independence are constant threats. Truthdig’s story serves as a cautionary tale about the fragility of such ventures, even those with a dedicated audience and critical acclaim.

In its prime, Truthdig was more than a news site; it was a community. It provided a space for voices that challenged the status quo, offering readers a different perspective on current events. The loss of such a platform underscores the need for diverse, independent media in our society.

As we reflect on Truthdig’s legacy, we are reminded of the importance of supporting independent journalism. The demise of Truthdig is not just the end of a website; it’s a loss for progressive discourse and a reminder of the delicate balance required to sustain such initiatives. In an era dominated by mainstream narratives, the absence of Truthdig leaves a void that remains to be filled.