With Donald Trump’s return to the presidency, concerns over the future of journalism in the United States are growing due to his contentious history with the media.
The term “Fake News,” a hallmark of his rhetoric, has often been used to dismiss unfavorable stories, and it reemerged in his recent campaign as a tool to discredit critical journalists and media outlets.
During the campaign, Trump urged the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to consider revoking the licenses of certain outlets, specifically singling out CBS. He accused the network of manipulating responses from his opponent, Kamala Harris, in an interview to make her answers appear more favorable. Trump has also expressed intent to investigate Comcast, the parent company of NBC News and MSNBC, accusing it of “treason” due to what he claims is biased coverage.
Adding to the tension, his running mate and Vice President-elect, JD Vance, has also shown hostility toward the press. At campaign events, he encouraged supporters to boo journalists who asked questions at press conferences, further straining the relationship between the incoming administration and the media.
Considering this scenario, the Free Press Alliance urges the new administration to respect and uphold press freedom, a cornerstone of American democracy. We call for recognition of journalists’ essential role in providing access to information and ensuring transparency in the country.