muckrake

To search for and expose misconduct in public life.

A rake for scraping muck or filth. Bunyan, Pilgrim’s Progress.

A rake for scraping up muck or dung. See muckrake, v. i., below.

To seek for, expose, or charge, especially habitually, corruption, real or alleged, on the part of public men and corporations.

to search for and expose corruption or scandal especially as done by a journalist.

explore and expose misconduct and scandals concerning public figures