Journalists and public relations practitioners share a history of mutual antagonism, as identified in previous research that has explored the deep-seated roots of distrust and negative stereotyping. This study examines the working relationship between journalists and public relations practitioners through the lens of gatekeeping. San Diego local news was selected as a representative sample. The study evaluates San Diego journalists and public relations practitioners' perceptions of their work together as well as their communication and interaction. Based on an online survey conducted of 104 San Diego media practitioners, findings showed that both groups differ in their perceptions of their working relationship and their communication and interaction. Although perceptions were not entirely negative in nature, journalists remain conflicted about the work of public relations practitioners. Findings of the study suggest that journalists play an intermediary role in the gatekeeping process, and that the current gatekeeping model may need to evolve to match the changing needs and demands of digital journalism.
