How to Access Public Records and Government Data in the U.S.

Foreign correspondents working in the United States have access to a wealth of public records and government data—if they know where to look. While navigating these systems may seem daunting at first, learning how to use U.S. transparency tools can significantly enhance your reporting.

The most important tool at your disposal is the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). FOIA allows anyone—not just U.S. citizens—to request access to records from federal agencies. Each federal department (e.g., Department of State, FBI, EPA) has its own FOIA office and submission portal. You should submit your request in writing, clearly identifying the records you seek, and specifying the format (e.g., emails, reports, memos). Responses can take weeks or months, and agencies may charge fees, but journalists often qualify for waivers.

Many states have their own version of FOIA, commonly referred to as “sunshine laws.” These apply to state agencies, governors’ offices, police departments, and municipal governments. Procedures and transparency levels vary by state, so it’s crucial to check each state’s open records process.

For federal court documents, the Public Access to Court Electronic Records (PACER) system is indispensable. This online service provides access to dockets, motions, rulings, and transcripts from U.S. District, Circuit, and Bankruptcy courts. While PACER charges a small per-page fee, many journalists find it useful for tracking litigation, including immigration cases, political lawsuits, and regulatory actions.

Several open government platforms provide valuable datasets. Data.gov is a comprehensive portal for federal datasets on topics ranging from education to climate change. USAspending.gov tracks how federal money is spent, and OpenSecrets.org offers insights into campaign finance and lobbying activities. For local-level transparency, many cities and counties offer their own OpenGov dashboards, which include data on budgets, police stops, public works, and more.

When using these tools, always double-check your findings and seek context from subject-matter experts or agency spokespeople. Public records often require interpretation, and raw data may need to be cross-verified.

Access to government information is a core element of the U.S. journalistic tradition. For foreign correspondents, mastering these systems can add depth and originality to your reporting—and help your audiences abroad better understand the inner workings of the United States.