I agree with Q's statement that a well informed person should try to get the same story from several different sources. Here in Puget Sound we are fortunate to have 5 daily newspapers,( Everett, Tacoma, Olympia, 2 in Seattle), with as many viewpoints & editorial opinions, from which to gather a consensus of what is really happening. It is a shame that more news writers don't consult these same sources, before they start shooting from the hip.
My favorite newspaper is actually National Speed Sport News, the weekly newspaper of American Auto Racing. Their columnists & writers are well informed & well spoken, and aren't afraid to call a rumor a rumor, instead of labeling it as fact. Quite often the rumor is later confirmed as fact. Editor Chris Economacki will also print any needed corrections in his own column, & accept all responsibility for them.
I often find more real news on the spoof " The Daily Show", than on the " Networks ". Responsible journalism is out there, you just have to look for it, & know it when you see it.