When legacy media’s hypocrisy gets called out: A perspective from our CEO

In recent weeks, it has become apparent that legacy media outlets have been displaying a troubling level of hypocrisy. One striking example comes from The Atlantic, which published an article titled "A Planeload of Informants" preceding the World Cup. The article's subtitle suggested that the U.S. was intensifying efforts to target narcos within the Mexican government, posing a potential threat. This was one of many sensationalist articles about Mexico that other major publications also produced.

However, the reality on the ground in Mexico contradicts these headlines. Homicide rates have hit lows not seen in over a decade since the post-Mencho spiral of violence failed to materialize. The "World Cup test" of Mexico's control over its territory never took place, as foreigners partying alongside Mexicans across the country showcased a safer environment. Despite this, no media outlet has acknowledged their previous inaccuracies.

This selective reporting has led to a broader pattern of readers tuning out of legacy media outlets, as their coverage becomes increasingly pessimistic and out of touch with reality. The Economist, in particular, has faced criticism for its misleading coverage of Mexico. A friend canceled his 30-year subscription after growing tired of the publication's inaccurate and sensationalist reporting. Many others have opted for sources that offer a more optimistic perspective on Mexico, such as Mexico News Daily.

The Economist's own editor-in-chief, Zanny Minton Beddoes, exemplified this bias during an interview with Elon Musk. Beddoes became defensive when Musk questioned the U.K., which is where The Economist is based. Her defensive reaction demonstrated a lack of objectivity, as she repeatedly accused Musk of being incorrect, racist, and promoting far-right parties.

This incident highlights the publication's tendency to take offense at any critique of its home country while ignoring its own history of inaccuracies in reporting other nations.