WURD Radio has cut ties with host Andrea Lawful-Sanders after it was revealed that she used pre-determined questions provided by Biden’s team during the interview she conducted with President Joe Biden post-debate on Wednesday, July 3rd. WURD Radio announced her termination on Sunday, July 7th, citing the interview questions being supplied by the interviewee as a violation of the station’s commitment to independent journalism. Sara Lomax, President and CEO of WURD Radio, emphasized the station’s dedication to accountability and the integrity of Black media.
Lomax stated, “The interview featured pre-determined questions provided by the White House, which violates our practice of remaining an independent media outlet accountable to our listeners. As a result, Ms. Lawful-Sanders and WURD Radio have mutually agreed to part ways, effective immediately.” This move underscores WURD’s policy of maintaining editorial independence, especially as Pennsylvania’s only Black-owned talk radio station.
The incident drew significant attention as it exposed the behind-the-scenes dynamics of political interviews. Lawful-Sanders disclosed the details during a CNN interview, highlighting the ethical breach using supplied questions. Lomax added, “Agreeing to a pre-determined set of questions jeopardizes that trust and is not a practice that WURD Radio engages in or endorses as a matter of practice or official policy.”
WURD Radio has a history of advocating for the Black community, rooted in its mission to provide a platform for Black voices. Lomax pointed out the ongoing struggle of Black media to maintain legitimacy and independence. “Black media has a long history of advocating for the interests of the Black community. This practice of de-legitimizing Black voices continues today. WURD Radio is not a mouthpiece for the Biden or any other administration,” she remarked.
This incident has prompted WURD Radio to review its policies to reinforce its commitment to independent journalism. Lomax emphasized the importance of Black media in a landscape where mainstream media often marginalizes Black perspectives. She stated, “Our outlets deserve to have a seat at the table especially because mainstream media has historically ignored, marginalized, and stereotyped Black people in their coverage.”
The controversy surrounding the interview reflects broader issues of media ethics and political influence. The Biden administration’s involvement in supplying questions raised questions about media independence and transparency. As Lomax concluded, “We will continue to be the unique platform that provides Black people a place where we can speak and be heard in our own voice – on our own terms.”
