Tarbell is an independent American news platform dedicated to producing hard-hitting investigative journalism that informs, empowers, and holds power to account. Named after Ida Tarbell — the pioneering journalist known for her work exposing the corrupt practices of Standard Oil — our publication continues her legacy by shining a light on the influence of money and special interests in sectors vital to public welfare.
Founded with the belief that a healthy democracy depends on well-informed citizens, Tarbell delivers deep, well-researched stories that uncover the hidden dynamics shaping American life. Our areas of focus include healthcare, defense, the environment, money in politics, and cultural issues — all approached with a commitment to integrity, depth, and non-partisanship.
We’re proud to be a reader-supported organization. Unlike many mainstream media outlets, we do not rely on advertising or corporate sponsorships that could compromise our editorial independence. Our funding comes from individual donors who believe in our mission, along with grants from institutions committed to journalistic integrity.
Our editorial team is made up of seasoned reporters, editors, and analysts with decades of experience across major news organizations. They bring with them a shared dedication to public-interest journalism and a relentless pursuit of the truth.
At Tarbell, we are committed to transparency — not just in the stories we publish, but also in how we operate. We publish our editorial guidelines publicly, disclose potential conflicts of interest, and invite feedback from our readers. We believe in listening as much as we report.
Through storytelling, data, and community engagement, we aim to foster a more informed, engaged, and active public. Whether we’re investigating pharmaceutical industry lobbying, tracking environmental policy changes, or exploring cultural shifts, Tarbell strives to make complex issues accessible and actionable for everyday Americans.
We invite you to explore our stories, sign up for our newsletter, and support our work. Together, we can carry forward the legacy of Ida Tarbell — and make journalism a force for accountability, justice, and positive change.