Rowena Lugtu-Shaddox aka RO

I want to be clear: I would have preferred not to make this video. I am sharing it to explain my upcoming coverage of the race for California state controller, including my efforts to interview incumbent Malia Cohen (D-CA) and why my candidate interview coverage of this office will feature only her challenger, Herb Morgan (R-CA). I would have preferred to produce a piece giving both candidates equal time. Those are journalistic values that guide me every day. After weeks of outreach and back-and-forth with Cohen’s team, a Zoom interview was scheduled, then abruptly canceled by her team. I was told she had no availability to reschedule before the election. Her team said I could submit written questions for Cohen to answer in writing. I respectfully declined because I wanted voters to hear directly from her on camera, with the opportunity for follow-up questions. I told her team multiple times I wanted to ensure voters heard her side, her priorities, and answer why she deserves a second term in office. I made every effort to make that happen. Fairness is always my priority. My goal was to give both candidates the same opportunity to discuss their records, answer meaningful and tough questions, and speak directly to voters. I regret that I could not make that happen, but voters deserve transparency about the process.