The Rio Grande Chapter of SPJ hosts a hangout for journalists to compare notes on access to officials, agencies and public records. At our last gathering in Santa Fe, we drafted a list of questions for political candidates during this and every election cycle.
It was a long list, and members of the SPJ board narrowed it down to these 10. But we encourage reporters, editors, news directors and editorial boards to use this as a jumping off point and tailor the conversation about real open government to their needs.
1. Will you comply with the Inspection of Public Records Act?
2. Will you be available for interviews and questions even when the subject may be controversial?
3. Will you communicate with news agencies and reporters who’ve published coverage that’s critical of your work or your administration?
4. Without using the word “transparency,” explain your philosophy about ensuring the public can scrutinize your performance.
5. Should 15 days be the standard or the maximum amount of time for complying with an Inspection of Public Records request?
6. Are you willing to forego your right to a closed meeting in the interest of having the public observe the decision-making process?
7. How important is executive privilege to you?
8. Should government agencies face a financial penalty for failing to comply with the Inspection of Public Records Act? What should it be?
9. Is there a record that your agency or governmental body could keep better track of?
10. How can you make data and information more accessible so people don’t even have to ask for it?
