In a shocking display of authoritarianism, former President Donald Trump has escalated his war on the free press by declaring that journalists who investigate him are "criminals." In an opinion piece, Trump's latest attack on the media has set off alarm bells among First Amendment advocates and journalists who see it as a brazen attempt to intimidate and silence those who dare to hold him accountable. By labeling journalists as "criminals," Trump is effectively attempting to delegitimize the press and undermine its ability to perform its constitutionally mandated role of a watchdog over government. As the media continues to play a crucial role in holding those in power accountable, Trump's words may be a chilling warning of a growing threat to press freedom.
Opinion | Trump Is Turning Journalists Into Criminals The New York Times