By JON FAULKNER
Journalism is tough business. There is always, as Paul Harvey made famous, the “rest of the story”.
The transition of Suzanne Downing from Must Read Alaska has generated speculation about the cause and the future direction of our platform. Our readers deserve a complete explanation.
Foremost, Suzanne Downing is one of the most talented and accomplished journalists of our age. By any metric, she has accomplished what few have or ever will. Her work has profoundly impacted Alaska and has advanced the conservative cause.
Upon purchase by AGCI in November 2023, Must Read transitioned management from a single person to a corporate board. Every investor shared the same purpose: preserve a free and uncensored press; support Suzanne and provide a “glidepath” for her retirement at a time of her choosing; grow the platform; and ensure its sustainability.
At that time, Suzanne wanted more time with her ailing mother and some monetization of her lifetime of effort. It was uncertain how long she would continue.
MRAK’s board is diverse, consisting of men and women with reputations for success and expertise in their fields. It is a fully empowered and functioning board, dedicated to a free and independent press. Trust exists among us because we take the time to debate and build consensus. It is impossible, not to mention supreme folly, to hide the truth in such a setting. It is equally true that seven people are not going to risk their personal integrity to engage in deception. We are all Alaskans who care deeply about our state.
So, what exactly happened on Sunday, September 7th, that caused Suzanne’s resignation?
The answer is, shockingly, very little. That Suzanne had been preparing to move on is evident from her owns words, her subsequent actions, and our internal exchange. Why she was prepared to resign is her story, not ours.
To address the topics squarely that have caused the most speculation, here are the facts:
Neither Mr. Taylor nor his campaign ever requested, or received, any favor or action of any kind from AGCI. Political favoritism was creeping into MRAK’s reporting and causing concern among our readers, period. Ms. Downing was advised of AGCI’s desire to maintain neutrality in the Governor’s race long before she resigned.
Ms. Dowing was not fired; she was not pushed out or encouraged to leave. Quite the opposite: Our board sought every possible means to retain her. That door is still open.
Finally, our exchange that day was respectful; at no point was an ultimatum delivered, no single-option demand issued that she take down the article. Quite the opposite.
I asked her respectfully to revise the article to more fairly frame the issue and to quell concerns about favoritism in our reporting. I supplied what I believed to be supporting facts, for example that the waiver was proper protocol and supported by precedent and common sense. My request was summarily dismissed.
Clearly, the article never came down because its removal was never the primary concern.
During Ms. Downing’s nearly two-year tenure with AGCI, she insisted on—and received–total editorial control. Effectively, every article had each board member’s name associated with it. And yet, during this entire period, no officer ever intervened to quash an article or compromise editorial independence. Two-way trust was predicated on the understanding that if a line was crossed, it would be resolved through dialogue. Board observance of editorial independence, contrary to press reports, has been exemplary.
So what happened? MRAK’s original model, under Ms. Downing’s ownership, was free to endorse, or oppose, any candidate of her choosing. AGCI, on the other hand, develops editorial policy collaboratively, and believes neutrality serves the interests of Alaskans. This should not be viewed as dividing conservatives or Republicans. I would like to believe it builds trust and honors our diverse audience of conservative thinkers.
When AGCI acquired Must Read, the publication was “blackballed” by Facebook, meaning we couldn’t post to it. Twitter had silenced President Donald Trump, and President Biden was using the Justice Department to pressure social media channels to censor conservative content. Ms. Downing needed to take care of her ailing mother. AGCI stepped in to support, not to sideline, this conservative voice.
Change is hard, but it can lead to new and better futures. Must Read Alaska will continue to provide a bulwark of conservative news and commentary in Alaska journalism. Our emphasis may shift, but our mission will remain.
Jon Faulkner is the president of Alaska Gold Communications, the parent company of Must Read Alaska.
Will you continue to use her likeness to ask for reader donations.
Maybe Suzanne will retire after she gets Bernadette Wilson elected Governor.
If she gets Bernadette elected.
Anyone but Dahlstrom (& Crum) …… please.
And anybody but Treg Taylor!
PS: I was very surprised to see the Treg Taylor article left up.
Good job MRAK (AGCI)
Pretty well sums it up, Jon. Suzanne is fiercely independent as are most Republicans. This often leads to internal squabbles and brush fires that sometimes unnecessarily escalate. But division amongst ourselves is to be avoided, especially in these times of national political unrest. Your social, economic and political values and Suzanne’s values are not maligned. We have to work together to directly confront and overpower the Left, who would gladly turn our country upside down with their universal hatred and temperment for power. Thank you for explaining this situation. MRAK readers and commenters are unlikely to abandon you. Many of us are die-hard Suzanne Downing fans. I predict that whatever fallout has occured, it will be brief. The Democrats have one thing that they consistently rely on for advancing their agenda……they stick together no matter how difficult the situation. We must do the same. Our families and our country depend on it.
This reads so much like “We wanted her to stay, but….” As a former journalist I can see where your lines were blurred. Your explanation does exactly as Suzanne said: Once compromised her editorial say will always be compromised. A true journalist will write and give the reader information to make their own decisions. You wanted Suzanne to “soften the blow” to Treg. In truth, it is not Suzanne that did anything, she just brought forward information that I as a reader should know. You lost an astonishingly talented writer. I am not surprised that she would not compromise.
That’s the way I read it as well.
To me, the following sentences illustrate the issue:
“I asked her respectfully to revise the article to more fairly frame the issue and to quell concerns about favoritism in our reporting.”
“During Ms. Downing’s nearly two-year tenure with AGCI, she insisted on—and received–total editorial control.”
Seems pretty clear, once editorial control was removed the previous agreement was voided.
I hope that MRAK is able to continue, but the last week hasn’t quite met the standard that MRAK has become known for. Hopefully the MRAK board can learn from this and move forward while providing the valuable service that has been provided here for the better part of a decade.
Suzanne Downing should not have been put in the position to “soften” the accurate article she wrote and published about Treg Taylor. We readers and supporters have been damaged by AGCI’s power and control that flies in the face of needed journalism. Suzanne’s departure is MRAK’s big loss!
Anyone but Treg Taylor.
Thank you for “the rest of the story,” and thank you for continuing the conservative voice in Alaska.
Appreciate the article. I just hope topics we care about are covered like they once were.
Personally, I only followed MRAK due to Suzanne’s editorial skill, content, and insight.
Having worked with Suzanne during her time in the legislature, we were acutely aware of her skill and work ethic. Those on your board who forgot the true value of their investment, should probably keep there money in a savings account where their emotions/opinions can’t get in the way of their profits.
Without Suzanne there is no reason to continue following your media outlet, and that’s all it will become. What a loss, colour me gone – and probably any profitability you might have had.
Never outsource your reputation.
In the week since Suzanne left I had hoped that the new management would continue with the conservative approach that she pioneered. Instead the articles were boring, some simply reprinted from months ago and not showing the conservative slant Suzanne had mastered and which were provocative and led to healthy debate.
Faulkner’s response fails to mention that he knew far well in advance that he had partnered with a journalist who was known for her conservative slant to current political discourse. He knew she requested and that he agreed to giving her full reign over the content of MRAK. She agreed to stay on with his full understanding of her independent role of selecting the content of every issue of MRAK. His explanation in this article is disingenuous and not accurate.
Readers are waiting to see if Faulkner can maintain the slant of MRAK that existed under Suzanne’s leadership.
So far that is not happening.
It would far easier to understand if Faulkner simply said he wanted more control of the content and Suzanne resigned because of that. Then after accepting her resignation simply release her from whatever no competition clause he made her sign.
But, considering what Faulkner is putting out there for its readership it is quite clear that whatever Suzanne puts out in the future that she will not be competing with the pablum that Faulkner is pushing in the readers.
“i had a crush on a girl, and now everyone else but me is stupid”.
great comment buddy. very smart.
You lost me when you used the word, “diverse “.
It would be nice to see the success of all of the conservative publications. I’d like to see some articles from some of the younger conservatives. Especially since the assassination of Charlie Kirk. Their voices need to be heard. I’ll continue to be a solid advocate for all conservative publications in Alaska.
Can you believe it?
No articles on Kirk’s assassination?
Probably too divisive, right?
Nah, Jon, but it’s time for me to be shuffling along. No need to justify yourselves: ‘Tis what it is!
This narrative – explanation doesn’t really pass the ‘Smell Test’ and I believe there’s more to the real reason for Suzzie’s departure. However, as most political inclined people with the editorial power, this narrative – explanation will have only accomplished the ultimate goal of uniquely shaping the story, strategically trying to set the purposeful facts. Unfortunately, it stinks and diminishes any confidence of truth and really doesn’t tell us … “the rest of the story” as we could always depend on Paul Harvey to do so.
Indeed, journalism is a tough business but, it’s much more successful when the organization sticks to the truthful facts. Good Luck!
I’m OK with favoritism if it’s honest. It was always obvious where Ms. Downing stood, and I appreciated that even when I disagreed with her. I have no idea where you stand Jon. Trust lost.
Bull Pucky
Okay, NOW I get it.
There is no such thing as neutrality. Your business model is built on a myth.
seems fair. best of luck with the publication. may it remain a sorely needed bullwark against the creeping communism of los anchorage. expose government waste ~ there’s lots of it!
The rest of the story? Hardly, more like “Our side of the story”. Were it the rest of the story, Suzanne would be writing it.
To the author:: You need to resign your position. It’s been a long time since anyone wrote so many excuses and out right lies. This article is characteristically a product of your choices to create deception on every level. All of you on the board need to do other work. Go find something that suits the tenor of your characters. So far, it ain’t good!
One wonders if the current owner is starting to regret ever dipping his toe into the stormy waters of Journalism.
Jon Faulkner, this is your explanation how Suzanne’s leaving was, I’m calling it your spin. And I really don’t believe it. If the media isn’t supposed to show political favoritism, what do you call what the Anchorage Daily Snooz prints is? I call it an associated press dispenser. If what the AG did by asking for a waiver was legal, why was reporting it wrong? A voter doesn’t to believe it or care about it. But it’s the truth. And as far as Must Read Alaska is going now, it’s all going downhill so far. The articles so far are so hohum. If Suzanne starts another conservative news outlet, I’m gonna be all onboard!!!! The articles you’re putting on MRAK now are so boring I don’t bother to read. Pick it up Scooter!!! Jon, I wish you and MRAK well.
I appreciate the explanation. I hope that it would generally conform to S.D.’s testimony.
I have a lot of respect for Suzanne. She has earned it. I will follow her reportage and commentary in the future.
I will still read and comment in MRAK. I hope it still is a beacon and driver in the conservative / liberty movement. Time will tell. Always be transparent and act with integrity. This post seems to be a good start. We have a country to save. Let’s go.
Blah blah blah,
Suzanne is the only reason this platform has any credibility. If you want that to continue, you’ll take her opinion seriously at all times, and take time to consult her going forward.
There’s the “tyranny of the majority” to be had on both sides of the message at all times. No board of any variety is going to be able to mitigate that.
This should have been the original announcement, not the coverup smelling sequel.
Did you ask Suzanne to write a resignation letter to her readers?
Is there a list of board members on this site?
Steve Jobs literally invented Apple Computer. He was a brilliant inventor and marketer. But when Apple went public, Jobs got aced out of his own company. It must have really hurt. Years later Jobs got back together with the board and leaders of Apple and started to work with them again. He became the spokesman and leader of Apple. It’s a telling story of how one person cannot do it all to keep a successful business fluid and profitable. Suzanne’s success and sudden departure is not the first if it’s kind in the business world. Sometimes a breakup is needed in order to find out how good the relationship was. Suzanne will likely be back at some point in the future.
Steve Wozniak built and perfected the first Apple computer, not Jobs. The company was founded to produce and market Wozniak’s Apple I personal computer.
Foremost, Suzanne Downing is one of the most talented and accomplished journalists of our age. By any metric, she has accomplished what few have or ever will. Her work has profoundly impacted Alaska and has advanced the conservative cause.
Bring Suzanne back! Her voice is what is interesting to read! I haven’t read the “ contributors “ posts. And only rarely read them while she was still posting. Get over your political differences and hold on to the great, passionate writer you so well esteem!
Foremost, Suzanne Downing is one of the most talented and accomplished journalists of our age. By any metric, she has accomplished what few have or ever will. Her work has profoundly impacted Alaska and has advanced the conservative cause.
Bring Susan back! Her voice is what is interesting to read! I haven’t read the “ contributors “ posts. And only rarely read them while she was still posting. Get over your political differences and hold on to the great, passionate writer you so well esteem!
I had no idea that MRAK had went from a single person in-charge to decisions by committee, until today. After reading this, I now know why I don’t use MRAK as much as I used to. Whether I agreed with Suzanne Downing or not, I liked her style, tone and structure. I had wondered why it changed and was not aware MRAK was bought.
Since I had been reading MRAK less and less, with Suzanne gone, I doubt I will have a reason to return. The current format is lifeless; it lacks humanity. The idea of ‘objectivity’ is a fantasy. Everyone has an opinion on a given topic and trying to write as if you don’t is ludicrous.
Up until today, I had this web site as one of the few I visited frequently (although, in MRAK’s case, it was less frequently). I’ve now deleted the link and will probably never return, unless something is linked to an article hosted on this site.
Just call her and ask her to come back. And say you’re sorry.
There was a checker at New Sagaya named Emily who told me , in response, about how I was concerned about the municipal mail in voting, where my name is attached to how I vote, who told me how she actually came to Alaska to set up mail in voting. And coincidentally, it was in the same store where I voiced concerns about this to a childhood friend who is very active in the local DNC who also found fault with this new voting method. She said it was illegal, because it required a stamp, thus making a person pay to vote.
The most compelling story in conservative politics since Trump’s election in 2016 – Kirk’s assassination – and not one article in MRAK.
Jeez, says a lot.
At least we got the article on how unfair the founder of McDonald’s was and the article on tomatoes.
“The rest of the story” as it suits Jon Faulkner, et al, me thinks.
One sided without a Suzanne Downing’s “Rest of the Story”.
Oh well. It was good while it lasted.
I’m extremely thankful that I didn’t have to “retire” under this kind of struggle. My employer gave me and my wife great honor and recognition upon my departure.
Suzanne, I hope you enjoy your time with your grandchildren, and I praise you for your focus on your mother’s final years. I thank you for your service to Alaska.
I’m not sure about this whole mess but one thing I do know is that I will follow for a while and maybe even post comments but i don’t like what I’m seeing content wise. Time will tell.
Thank you for more clarification. We need all of our conservative sites for news and I will continue to be a reader.
Close the doors MRAK. You are now the “conservative” version of the rest the liberal media in Alaska. Treg Taylor needs a grand jury like nurse answering a Code Blue.
Jon, a two way street has honesty & trust going both directions… do I see it here, I am still evaluating ! I have known both of you for some time … NO ONE IS PERFECT! Please print my comments now , for all is the truth , if you can handle it! Good luck to you both 🙂 🙂 🙂
Liberty Ed Martin Jr
I realize disclosure forms are necessary and I agree with them.But personally it seems like a breach of privacy to list every renter.It seemed like a strange place to attack the former ATG(who was about as worthless as his boss).Not the most defensible nor tactical way to attack him.
Me thinks she got her panties in a wad over mostly nothing, hurt ego’s/pride imo.
While I drink next to nothing of this modern version of the rights koolaid,i still like to keep abreast of the other sides thinking.Its a huge mistake I believe not too.
Good luck to the brand and the sight
There is a lot more to the story…
MRAK has gone downhill since the “board” took over. The frequency of articles has gone down, significantly. The moderation of comments is abysmal at best. The topics presented are different than before, and not an improvement.
.
And, I bet this comment will “await moderation” for several days, or will just get deleted.
.
Open note to the “board”. Go back and review what Suzanne did for years. It is what made MRAK what it is. Emulate it, do not choose to change it for small reasons.
“I asked her respectfully to revise the article to more fairly frame the issue and to quell concerns about favoritism in our reporting. I supplied what I believed to be supporting facts, for example that the waiver was proper protocol and supported by precedent and common sense. My request was summarily dismissed.”
Having just re-read the article in question once again, I don’t see where the concern comes from. What I read was the time line of what happened regarding the former Attorney General and his request for an exemption, the APOC response including proper protocol, and that APOC would be considering the exemption.
I guess I’m missing something.
Considering the full blown assault on our nation and western civilization in general that has been taking place for decades and was put into high gear during the Obama administration by fomenting conflict and instability from within, why are so few in the “impartial” media reporting about it’s Marxist/Neo-Marist and Devos “One Worlders ” origins? There is a difference between “reporting” truth honestly and “editorially” stating an opinion of what this truth means or how it should be dealt with.
Suzanne Downing was one of the few doing both in our state. Unfortunately the current board of Must Read Alaska is using the “impartial journalism” mantra to justify not taking a stand on saving our state and country. In doing so you are ignoring the very real threats to our civilization
Suzanne was MRA. MRA will keep the name, but the credibility will be suspect now.
Without Suzanne there is no reason to continue following your media outlet, and that’s all it will become. What a loss, colour me gone – and probably any profitability you might have had.
Agreed. Considering the full blown assault on our nation and western civilization in general that has been taking place for decades and was put into high gear during the Obama administration by fomenting conflict and instability from within, why are so few in the “impartial” media reporting about it’s Marxist/Neo-Marist and Devos “One Worlders ” origins? There is a difference between “reporting” truth honestly and “editorially” stating an opinion of what this truth means or how it should be dealt with.
Susan Downing was one of the few doing both in our state. Unfortunately the current board of Must Read Alaska is using the “impartial journalism” mantra to justify not taking a stand on saving our state and country. In doing so you are ignoring the very real threats to our civilization.
While our “Ranked Choice” system has been a good “bad” example for the rest of the country, we still have it for our upcoming gubernatorial and state elections. Susan obviously supported the need for Republicans to get behind one strong candidate for Governor under “Ranked Choice Voting”, because if we don’t we can almost guarantee a left wing Democrat or Independent will be our next Governor elected by a minority of left wing voters
Much depends – actually everything depends – on what you publish going forward. If MRA becomes a place to print corporate and political press releases, there will not be much reason to visit. And it will be that much worse if MRA tries not to offend anyone. The beginning has been unremarkable.
And… still no improvement in comment moderation.
Are you actively trying to lose readers?
When Suzanne was running this site, it was a place of lively discussion. Now… it seems like the “board” is not interested in what the public has to say.
.
Seriously, if you cannot be bothered to post more than two articles a day, and if moderating the comments is too big of a burden, please shut the site down.
.
Of course, I am wasting my time here. If, and that is a big IF, my comment actually gets read by the moderator, I doubt it will get published. Just like the handful of other comments that have been awaiting moderation for almost a week.
Seriously, delete them, do not leave them in limbo. That is absolutely disrespectful to your readers.
I find it extremely interesting that this much uprise would stem from an Attorney General’s thin skin and the powers that be to circle the wagons around a professional whose career and education is grounded in winning an argument.
I would view the article as an opportunity to prepare for the general election debates, not cause editorial chaos within his own constituencies public media platform.
There is competition within the general election race – it is not favoritism – as a conservative I haven’t landed upon who I will vote for, but thanks to the actions of the MRAK Editorial Board, I have eliminated one candidate.
That is in fact, the rest of the story.
Suzanne is gone. Now, so am I. I relied on MRAK To tell me all the things The Daily ???? News wouldn’t. You want to change the perspective of the paper? I’m not interested. You wanted to make Suzanne toe your
less conservative line.She wouldn’t be steered that way. Good for her.
Jack Frost
Do a blog post on state maintained roads viruses city/ muni pot hole hell roads.
Please apologize to Susanne❤️
She’s interesting to read Jonathan ❤️
Some people have a gift, and you recognized her gift for writing.
What happened to the big bad Russian airplane Not in our airspace story and all its published and unpublished comments.