NPR says that its mission is to present "fair, accurate and comprehensive information and selected cultural expressions for the benefit of, and at the service of our democracy." That's easier said than done.

Find out how NPR shapes its news and political coverage, who makes judgment calls on a daily basis, and what happens when problems arise. Alicia Shepard is NPR Ombudsman.

Weigh in: What are your comments and/or complaints about NPR's coverage of news and politics? What would you like to hear more or less of?