MPR wants you!

At the parent organization of Minnesota Public Radio, Michael Caputo seeks Power Line readers to join American Public Media’s Public Insight Network. He writes:

It’s true. Established news outlets want to connect with more people who identify as conservative and/or Republican as the 2012 presidential campaign ramps up.

The Public Insight Network, run by American Public Media, works with news organizations around the country to add context and relevance to issues like the 2012 campaign. This network has more than 100,000 citizens who have agreed to be on-the-ground sources for those newsrooms. It could always use more.

In fact, we recognize the need to have more Republican and/or conservative citizens in this network, especially with the GOP nomination up for grabs. So we are making a specific plea for you to become part of this network and help inform what the media sees as news. We need conservatives from around the U.S., since our news organizations come from all parts of the country.

We have an easy way to do this. The Public Insight Network has a short survey on the Republican race for the presidency. It’s aimed at putting voters’ stories first (rather than candidates’) and helping reporters understand more about what’s motivating and inspiring conservative voters this year. Here’s the link:

Assess the GOP presidential field … and tell us what stories from your life should they know.

This isn’t a poll. Instead, it’s designed to help journalists see what motivates and mobilizes citizens. Some of you who respond could hear from a reporter wanting to learn more. Trends you identify could be the basis for more citizen-centered reporting in this campaign season.

I know the level of distrust of NPR and its affiliates among conservatives is high. Mr. Caputo closes on this note, inviting readers to contact him:

Please consider making a connection with the Public Insight Network. And I’d be happy to talk with you more about the survey and network. Just call or email me.

All the best,

Michael Caputo
Public Insight Network Senior Analyst
American Public Media
(651) 290-1081
[email protected]

On behalf of Mr. Caputo, I thank you for your consideration.

UPDATE: Regarding the race/income inquiries on the questionnaire, Caputo adds: “There are no required answers except the biographical. In fact, in the race category… We give no drop down list. We often have people ignore it or even say n/a.”

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