Media Faces Challenges Under Trump Administration

As Donald Trump prepares for his second term, journalists are bracing for potential intensified attacks on the media, including threats of defamation lawsuits and a crackdown on unfavorable coverage. An internal Axios memo indicates that Trump may pursue legal action against news organizations, possibly utilizing the Espionage Act to target journalists who use unnamed sources. The recent $15 million settlement between Trump and ABC News over a defamation claim against George Stephanopoulos has raised concerns that it could embolden Trump to escalate his legal threats against the press. Media experts fear that the new administration could employ tactics such as subpoenas and intimidation to suppress dissent and undermine press freedoms. Reporters and media organizations are preparing for challenges to their rights, with some expressing exhaustion over the prospect of renewed hostility. Bruce Brown, executive director of the Reporters Committee for the Freedom of the Press, emphasized the importance of being ready for both overt and subtle attacks on journalism.