A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the Christian County Election Division on February 5, 2025. The request, made by South Central Reporter, a media organization dedicated to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs, seeks information about all candidates running in the upcoming election.
The specific details requested include the first, middle, and last names of the candidates, the office they are running for, the jurisdiction of that office, and their party affiliation. Additionally, contact information for each candidate is also sought; this includes their address, phone number, and email address.
South Central Reporter emphasized its role as a media organization involved in gathering and reporting news to the public. Access to public records is deemed essential for fulfilling professional responsibilities which include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public. Given this role in disseminating information, South Central Reporter believes it is eligible for a fee waiver as a media professional.
This request is part of an ongoing effort by South Central Reporter to ensure transparency in local government affairs and provide comprehensive coverage of upcoming elections. It serves as an example of how journalists utilize tools like FOIA requests to gather necessary information for their reporting duties.