Upcoming Projects from Matthew Bovee: What's Next

By Matthew Bovee, Investigative Journalist Lincoln Nebraska

Desk with notebook and research materials

After two decades of investigative journalism, I’ve learned that the best stories are the ones that keep you up at night — the ones that won’t let you go until you’ve told them. Here’s a look at what I’m working on now, what’s on the horizon, and what dreams I haven’t yet found the time to pursue.

Current Projects

The Farm Bill Investigation (In Progress)

Expected Publication: Late 2026

The farm bill — the massive agricultural legislation that shapes American food production — is up for reauthorization in 2025. But behind the scenes, a battle is brewing over who actually writes the policies that control billions of dollars and affect millions of lives.

My investigation has already revealed:

  • How agricultural conglomerates draft farm bill language before legislators see it
  • The role of lobbyist “revolving doors” in shaping policy
  • The impact on small farmers who get squeezed out by corporate consolidation

This project will be a book, expected in late 2026.

The County Courthouse Project (Ongoing)

Type: Long-term investigative series

Every county courthouse in America holds stories — of land deals, of court cases, of the quiet accumulation of power. I’m building a network of journalists and researchers who will systematically examine court records across multiple states, looking for patterns of corruption, abuse, and accountability.

This is a multi-year project. If you’re a journalist or researcher interested in participating, reach out through the contact page.

Books in Development

“The Settlement Machine: Updated Edition” (2026)

Five years after original publication, I’m working on an updated edition of my first book. This new version will include:

  • New developments in the cases the original book exposed
  • Additional reporting on how the legal system has (or hasn’t) changed
  • Reflections on what I’ve learned since the initial publication

“The Art of the Leak” (Working Title)

A practical guide to investigative journalism techniques — not just for journalists, but for anyone who needs to uncover the truth in complex systems. I’m aiming for a book that’s part memoir, part how-to manual.

Topics planned include:

  • Finding and cultivating sources
  • Document analysis techniques
  • Legal and ethical considerations
  • Protecting yourself and your sources

Expected: 2027

Dreams and Ambitions

The Water Project

I’m not ready to reveal details yet, but I’ve been quietly researching a major water story that spans multiple continents. Think the Aquifer War — but bigger. Stay tuned.

Documentary Film

I’ve been approached by a production company about adapting one of my investigations into a documentary. Nothing is finalized, but the possibility of bringing these stories to film is exciting.

Journalism Training Initiative

One of my goals is to establish a formal training program for investigative journalists, focused on rural America. Too many important stories go untold because small newsrooms lack the resources and expertise to pursue them.

This would be a partnership with existing journalism organizations, providing both training and mentorship.

What Drives Me

Every project I pursue shares a common thread: the belief that transparency creates accountability. Whether it’s a local land deal in Nebraska or a federal policy in Washington, someone is making decisions that affect your life. They should be held to account.

I’ve been lucky enough to make a career out of this work. The investigations, the books, the appearances — none of it would be possible without readers and viewers like you who care about the truth.

Stay Connected

The best way to follow my work is through:

  • This website (matthew-bovee.com)
  • The newsletter (subscribe on the homepage)
  • Social media (links in the footer)

And if you have a tip, a lead, or information about a story that needs to be told — please, reach out. Every investigation I’ve ever done started with someone who cared enough to talk to a journalist.

Matthew Bovee is an award-winning investigative journalist based in Lincoln, Nebraska. His work has appeared in major publications and earned multiple awards for accountability reporting.