What is the significance of the fourth estate?

The fourth estate is also known as the fourth branch of government. It relates to the “independent role of the media in reporting on the government.” The fourth estate is another word for the press acting as a watchdog. The significance of the fourth estate is that it almost protects the press and highlights them by informally being a part of the government as a “fourth branch.” It is important for the press to act as watchdogs. The importance of their role is to “keep tabs on the rascals in power to keep them honest.”