The news media often defend the freedom-of-information principles that allow them to hold government accountable for their audiences. But will they ask presidential candidates during the 2016 presidential debates how they stand on government transparency? Stay tuned.

The debates are traditionally moderated by major news media figures, although those have yet to be announced by the Commission on Presidential Debates. Presidential debates are scheduled for September 26, October 9, and October 19, and the vice-presidential debate is scheduled for October 4.

• "Post Reporter Barred, Patted Down by Police, at Rally for Trump Running Mate," [2] Washington Post, July 28, 2016, by Paul Farhi.
• "240 Days and Counting: Why Hillary Won't Do Press Conferences," [3] The Hill, August 1, 2016, by Joe Concha.