A resolution condemning recent attacks on the free press by President Donald J. Trump and reaffirming the United States commitment to preserving and protecting freedom of the press as a cornerstone of democracy.
This Senate resolution (S. Res. 205) condemns what its sponsors describe as attacks on the free press by former President Donald J. Trump and reaffirms the United States’ commitment to protecting freedom of the press as essential to democracy. It catalogs a series of actions and rhetoric attributed to Trump, including accusations against major news outlets, attempts to influence or punish media organizations, and efforts to undermine public media funding and independence. The resolution also highlights concerns about the impact on journalists abroad, including individuals employed by USAGM (Voice of America and related networks) who face detention or legal jeopardy, and it calls for the release of those journalists and for solidarity with journalists facing threats. Overall, it presents the press as a foundational democratic institution and Maine the executive branch to respect journalists’ rights. It is introduced in the Senate and referred to the Judiciary Committee; as a resolution, it is a non-binding expression of Senate sentiment rather than a law.
Key Points
- 1Condemns what it describes as direct attacks on the free press by President Trump, listing eight specific actions or statements (including remarks about outlets, exclusion from press pools, lawsuits against news organizations, attempts to defund public media, and efforts to roll back protections for journalists).
- 2Reaffirms the essential role of a free, independent press in democracy, government accountability, an informed citizenry, and the protection of fundamental rights.
- 3Urges the executive branch to respect journalists’ rights and to allow them to perform their duties without retaliation or political interference.
- 4Calls for continued efforts to secure the release of 11 USAGM journalists imprisoned abroad and notes risks faced by international USAGM staff and contractors.
- 5Expresses solidarity with journalists facing threats, harassment, or violence and signals ongoing support for press freedom as a global and domestic priority.