United StatesOwnership & classification
Founded: 1976
Ownership
Mother Jones is published by the Foundation for National Progress, a San Francisco-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 1975; the magazine launched in 1976. As a nonprofit it has no private owner or shareholders and is run by an independent board and editorial staff. In 2024 Mother Jones merged operations with the Center for Investigative Reporting (publisher of Reveal) to form a larger joint nonprofit newsroom.
Funding
It is financed through reader subscriptions and donations, advertising, and grants from philanthropic foundations. Major institutional funders have included the MacArthur Foundation, Ford Foundation, Kresge Foundation and the Open Society Foundations, alongside a large base of individual small donors.
Affiliation & stance
Editorially it is a progressive, left-leaning investigative outlet, but it is not owned or directed by any party, government or single proprietor. Because it operates as an independent nonprofit governed by its own board with editorial control resting with its journalists, it is classified INDEPENDENT (left lean) rather than party- or state-controlled.
Editorial lean
- Our estimate
- Progressive
- Measured from coverage
- Lean Progressivebased on 123
63/100
Factual
56/100
Objective
132
Articles
128
reports
Factual: How accurately its articles report the facts, judged against primary sources and the cross-outlet consensus. Only articles that cite their sources are counted.
Objective: How neutral the writing is — whether reporting keeps the writer’s own preferences and opinions out of the article.
Recent coverage
President Donald Trump and Natalie Harp in the Oval Office on May 30, 2025. Francis Chung/POLITICO via AP
The article features a photograph of former President Donald Trump and Natalie Harp in the Oval Office on May 30, 2025, captioned by POLITICO via AP. The image appears in a publication by Mother Jones, which is known for its progressive stance. The article does not provide additional context or commentary beyond the visual content, focusing solely on the depiction of the two individuals in a formal setting.
A Natalie Harp Conspiracy Theory (Not Really)
The article titled 'A Natalie Harp Conspiracy Theory (Not Really)' by Mother Jones explores a conspiracy theory surrounding Natalie Harp, likely referring to a public figure or individual involved in a controversial situation. The piece humorously or critically examines the nature of conspiracy theories, suggesting that while they may seem plausible at first, they often lack substantial evidence or credible sources. The article appears to engage with the broader cultural phenomenon of conspiracy thinking, possibly critiquing how such narratives gain traction despite their unfounded claims. It does not provide specific details about the conspiracy itself but rather focuses on the dynamics and implications of such theories in public discourse.
RIP to the Russiagate Liberals
Retired Army Lt. Col. Alexander Vindman, a Florida Democratic Senate candidate, lost to Angie Nixon in the August 2026 Democratic primary, ending a significant chapter in the 'Russiagate' narrative. The article frames this loss as a defeat for 'liberal mass delusions' of the Trump era, suggesting that the focus on Russian election interference and conspiracy theories diverted attention from broader political issues. It criticizes the reliance on such narratives by Democrats and media figures like Rachel Maddow, arguing that they used these conspiratorial ideas to explain Trump's victory without addressing internal Democratic failures. The piece highlights how this approach failed at the ballot box, with Vindman's loss symbolizing the collapse of this strategy. It also references other political figures like George Conway and Dan Goldman, who similarly struggled against more substantive candidates.
En Banc Fifth Circuit Dismisses Alien Enemies Act Case as Moot
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit dismissed the case 'W.M.M. v. Trump' as moot, ruling that the legal challenge to President Donald Trump's use of the Alien Enemies Act (AEA) to deport Venezuelans accused of being part of a drug trafficking organization is no longer active. The case centered on whether the AEA, which permits detention and deportation during wartime or in cases of invasion or predatory incursion, could be applied to non-military activities like illegal immigration and drug smuggling. The court determined that the named plaintiffs had already been deported under separate statutory provisions, making the case procedurally moot. While the dismissal does not resolve the core legal question regarding the AEA’s interpretation, it effectively ends the judicial review of Trump’s executive actions under the statute. The author of the article, which argues that 'invasion' in the AEA must be understood as a military attack rather than non-violent activities, highlights the potential constitutional risks of expanding the AEA’s scope.
Florida’s GOP Has a Very Short Playbook: Call Everyone a Socialist
The article examines the strategy employed by the Republican Party in Florida, which has increasingly relied on labeling opponents as 'socialists' as a rhetorical tactic. This approach is presented as a simplistic and repetitive playbook used to delegitimize political adversaries. The piece highlights how this framing is used to rally base support and distract from substantive policy discussions. It suggests that such rhetoric reflects a broader trend within conservative politics to resort to ideological branding rather than engaging with complex issues. The article critiques this strategy as ineffective and indicative of a lack of alternative policies.
Law firm with ties to Trump administration declines offer to represent migrant children
A Texas-based law firm with historical ties to the Trump administration, Burke Law Group, rejected a $150 million federal contract to represent unaccompanied migrant children in deportation cases. The decision comes as the administration moves to award the contract to Burke, despite its limited experience in immigration law. The previous contract with nearly 100 providers expired in July with no replacement, leaving temporary representation in place until December. The Office of Refugee Resettlement, which oversees these contracts, provided no explanation for Burke's rejection. The firm's founder previously worked under the Trump administration, and its roster includes individuals aligned with conservative policies. Legal experts note that Congress mandates legal representation for detained children, highlighting ongoing concerns about access to adequate legal services.
Trump says loyalist Ed Martin to leave the DOJ to focus on election-related legal battles
Former Trump loyalist Ed Martin, who served as a U.S. attorney for Washington, D.C. and led a 'weaponization working group' within the Justice Department, is departing the administration to focus on election-related legal matters. President Trump highlighted Martin's contributions, including overseeing the firings of January 6 prosecutors and managing the Capitol riot investigation. Attorney General Todd Blanche praised Martin as a 'patriot.' Martin's tenure faced challenges, including a failed Senate confirmation for a permanent U.S. attorney position and being removed from his leadership role in the weaponization working group. Trump announced Martin's exit in a post on Truth Social, expressing confidence in his ability to ensure 'free, fair, and honest elections.'
Gov. Ron DeSantis: I Do Not Endorse or Support Cory Mills
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis stated during a press conference that he does not endorse or support Rep. Cory Mills' reelection campaign in Florida's 7th Congressional District. The statement comes amid significant controversy surrounding Mills, including allegations of financial misconduct, abuse, and violations of House rules. Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC) introduced a resolution to expel Mills from Congress, citing evidence of physical assaults on women, threats, and fraudulent behavior. Mace emphasized that Mills has been protected by institutional forces and that his actions constitute a threat to public trust. Meanwhile, Republican Ryan Elijah is challenging Mills in the upcoming election, and former President Donald Trump, who once supported Mills, has not included him in recent endorsements.
Native American Leaders Denounce Record Glyphosate Spraying on National Forests
Native American leaders have expressed strong opposition to the increased use of glyphosate herbicide in national forests. They argue that this spraying poses environmental and health risks, particularly to Indigenous communities who rely on these lands for cultural and subsistence purposes. The practice has raised concerns about the long-term impact on ecosystems and traditional ways of life. The controversy highlights tensions between federal land management policies and the rights of Indigenous peoples.
Trump’s Minions Say He’s Mulling New Tax Breaks—They’re Mainly for the Rich
The article reports that individuals associated with Donald Trump suggest he is considering new tax breaks, which are primarily intended to benefit the wealthy. The piece highlights concerns about potential policies that could exacerbate income inequality by offering significant financial advantages to affluent individuals while potentially disadvantaging lower-income groups.
The learning curve for AI in schools
As American students return to school, educational institutions are increasingly adopting AI-powered tools to enhance learning. Major companies like Google, Anthropic, OpenAI, and Khan Academy have introduced AI solutions for teachers, while over 30 U.S. states have established guidelines for AI use in education. A significant number of high school students already use AI for schoolwork, and the percentage of teachers utilizing these tools has nearly doubled in recent years. While AI can assist with administrative tasks, research suggests that students benefit most when they critically evaluate AI's limitations, such as potential biases or privacy concerns. Surveys indicate that many teens view AI as both a tool for quick answers and a resource for deeper thinking, though they recognize that certain skills, like collaboration, fact-checking, and critical thinking, should remain the domain of human educators. Howard Gardner, a leading expert on intelligence, argues that while AI excels in cognitive areas like creativity and synthesis, it cannot replace human roles in fostering respect, ethics, and interpersonal relationships. He believes AI may inspire new forms of human intelligence,
Roger Stone Is Lobbying for a Vape Firm Accused of Illegally Marketing to Kids
The article reports that Roger Stone, a former Trump campaign adviser known for his involvement in past controversies, is currently lobbying on behalf of a vape company that has been accused of illegally marketing products to minors. The firm in question faces allegations related to its advertising practices, which regulators claim target young people in violation of federal laws. Stone’s recent activities suggest he may be leveraging his influence and connections to support this client, raising questions about potential conflicts of interest and ethical concerns. The piece highlights the broader issue of corporate accountability in the vaping industry and the role of individuals with controversial histories in shaping regulatory outcomes.
Support networks aim to help kids through the polycrisis
Pim Sullivan-Tailyour, a young woman from the UK, recalls childhood experiences in Thailand where she witnessed environmental degradation caused by quarrying activities. These early observations sparked her awareness of human impact on nature. As she grew up in the UK, she became involved in environmental activism through the Schools Sustainability Network but felt isolated in her efforts. She discovered 'Force of Nature,' an organization offering online support groups for youth concerned about climate issues. Participating in these sessions connected her with others globally facing similar anxieties, leading her to believe many peers share her concerns despite not taking action. The article highlights the broader context of a 'polycrisis' affecting global youth, encompassing climate change, pandemics, conflict, economic instability, and technological fears, contributing to widespread anxiety among children.