Commentary: Honoring the legacy of Andrew Breitbart (1969-2012)

We mourn the loss of Andrew Breitbart – author, commentator, publisher, and one of the nation’s top citizen journalists – who challenged the establishment media with boldness and ignited a grassroots movement of online activism.
His fierce commitment to truth and transparency emboldened everyday citizens to expose bias and corruption in government, regardless of political party or affiliation.  
His brilliance in social media forced both his allies and enemies to face tough issues, examine motives, and entertain abstract ideas. His creativity inspired others to be information activists in their own communities, and learn new ways to tell the American story.  
There is a void in today’s news cycle where his enthusiasm and resilience once lived. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and supporters as we honor the passion and conviction that followed him in his life and his career.
Note: Stverak is president of the Franklin Center for Government & Public Integrity. A video tribute to Breitbart can be viewed here.