In the first of Simon's Reflections for 2025, Simon O'Connor criticises New Zealand’s mainstream media for what he sees as blatant hypocrisy and double standards in their treatment of public figures. He contrasts the aggressive scrutiny faced by National MP Hamish Campbell—targeted merely for hosting guests with distant ties to a controversial religious group—with the lenient and sympathetic handling of serious allegations against Green MP Benjamin Doyle, particularly around child safeguarding concerns. Emphasising the need for greater integrity and accountability in journalism, Simon calls for systemic change, advocating for more balanced media voices like those found at RCR.