Condemns President Trump's attacks on the press, reaffirms the importance of freedom of the press, and urges respect for journalists' rights.
Sheldon Whitehouse
Senator
RI
This resolution condemns President Trump's attacks on the freedom of the press, citing specific instances of disparaging remarks, exclusion of media outlets, and actions against news organizations. It reaffirms the United States' commitment to protecting freedom of the press as vital for democracy and government accountability. The resolution expresses concern that these actions set a dangerous precedent, endangering journalists and emboldening authoritarian regimes, and calls for the release of imprisoned USAGM journalists.
Resolution Condemns Trump's Press Attacks, Cites 'Dangerous Precedent' for Journalists & Democracy
This resolution, coming from both the House and Senate, isn't pulling any punches. It formally condemns former President Donald J. Trump's actions and rhetoric aimed at the free press, arguing these behaviors show a clear disregard for First Amendment protections. The document lays out a laundry list of specific instances, from accusing major news organizations like The Washington Post and CNN of illegal behavior to attempting to defund National Public Radio (NPR) and the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS). The core message is a reaffirmation of the United States' commitment to a free press as a fundamental pillar of a functioning democracy.
The Specifics: What Actions Are Under Scrutiny?
The resolution doesn't just make general statements; it itemizes particular actions that lawmakers found concerning. These include claims that certain news outlets were acting as political arms, the exclusion of the Associated Press from White House press pool access, and filing a lawsuit against CBS News which the resolution suggests was an attempt to intimidate and call for the revoking of broadcast licenses. It also points to efforts to compel PBS to shutter its diversity, equity, and inclusion office and a rescinded Department of Justice policy that had previously protected journalists from subpoenas. These aren't just abstract concerns; they're concrete examples the resolution uses to build its case that press freedoms were actively undermined.
Ripples Beyond Our Borders: The Global Impact
According to the resolution, the impact of these actions isn't confined to the U.S. It argues that such conduct sets a "dangerous precedent," potentially emboldening authoritarian regimes worldwide and directly endangering journalists. The resolution specifically mentions the 11 reporters from the United States Agency for Global Media (USAGM) currently imprisoned abroad, as well as international USAGM employees on work visas who could face deportation. The concern is that when a global leader appears to attack its own press, it gives a green light to others who wish to silence dissent and control information. This ultimately affects everyone, as a threatened global press corps means less information and accountability on the world stage.
Reaffirming a Core Value: The Resolution's Stand
Beyond condemnation, the resolution aims to send a clear message: the U.S. stands by its historical role as a champion of press freedom. It formally reaffirms the critical importance of a free press for holding government accountable and ensuring an informed public. The text urges the executive branch to respect the rights of journalists, calls for the release of the 11 imprisoned USAGM journalists, and expresses unwavering support for reporters who face threats and harassment simply for doing their jobs. It's a statement that attempts to draw a line, underscoring that a free and independent press is not a partisan issue, but a cornerstone of democratic society.