At CJF, we stand with whistleblowers. No one should fear retaliation for speaking the truth. Watch the full interview to see how we’re working together to empower those who expose corruption.

ICYMI: OMG has obtained leaked audio of ESPN producer Ryan Bertnard making shocking remarks about Stephen A. Smith, calling him an “angry Black man” and questioning his credibility on politics. Bertnard also revealed ESPN staff think Smith is “crazy” and that LeBron James personally confronted him over comments about his son, Bronny.

At the Citizen Journalism Foundation, we are committed to protecting whistleblowers who expose critical truths about government agencies and corporations. Our latest case involves David Nelsen, a Tax Examining Technician at the Internal Revenue Service, who stepped forward to reveal concerns about the agency’s outdated and “antiquated systems” that “handcuff” employees from effectively serving the public. Nelsen has been placed on “paid administrative leave” while the agency “investigates” his conduct, according to a letter he received on March 14, 2025.

"The latest status is that we just received a letter… indicating that he would be placed on paid leave while the agency is investigating his conduct," said Nicole Pearson of Citizen AG "Which is interesting language because they need to be investigating… his claims and the basis for his plans, and not his conduct."

Pearson and Citizen AG have taken proactive legal measures to ensure Nelsen’s rights are protected. ...