Which is an example of a primary source in news reporting?

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In journalism, a primary source is the direct, first-hand record from the event or statement itself—the original material produced by someone with firsthand involvement or observation. The most fitting example is the original official document or statement because it is the source itself, presenting the exact information or wording as issued by the authority or party involved (for example, a government press release, a court ruling, or the verbatim text of a speech).

Other options are not primary sources. A news article that synthesizes multiple sources mixes and interprets information from others, making it secondary reporting. A textbook chapter summarizes and explains information that came from various sources, also secondary. An editorial opinion piece provides commentary and viewpoint, not a direct record of events or original data.