Data Republic tutorial showcases tools for researching judges and charities

At a recent Davis County Conservatives meeting, guest speaker Jennica Pounds unveiled the powerful capabilities of the Data Republican website, emphasizing its potential for responsible research into public figures and organizations. Pounds highlighted the importance of using the tool as a means of inquiry rather than a definitive judgment, urging attendees to verify their findings and understand the context behind the data.

Pounds demonstrated how to utilize the site effectively, starting with a search for judges' names, which can reveal connections to various organizations, including charitable entities. She explained that the site allows users to download results in a spreadsheet format, making it easier to analyze relationships and funding sources. "This is where the power comes from," she stated, encouraging users to dig deeper into the data to uncover insights about taxpayer-funded organizations.

The meeting also introduced several specific tools available on the platform, such as the charity graph and nonprofit financials, which help users visualize where taxpayer money is allocated. Pounds noted that users can filter searches by taxpayer funding percentages and travel expenses, providing a clearer picture of how funds are spent.

In closing, Pounds reiterated the importance of thorough research and verification, stating, "We’re all looking for things that don’t make sense." She encouraged attendees to leverage the tools available on the Data Republican website to foster informed discussions and promote transparency in government spending. The session underscored a growing interest in data-driven accountability among local conservatives in Davis County.