As King Trump limits access to his news conferences, sues news organizations for perceived unjust coverage and cuts funding to NPR and other public news sources, it is easy to understand his objectives. He is seeking absolute control of what American citizens hear about the goals and effectiveness of his Administration. As he has demonstrated, Trump strives to be a dictator.
Fortunately, many of the news organizations are resisting his efforts and defending themselves in court; for the most part, the judicial system has sided with the journalists. Nevertheless, the recent resignation of the long-standing Executive Producer for 60 Minutes, Bill Owens, is disturbing.
King Trump's bombastic approach is on shaky legal grounds (at best) and his low approval ratings partly reflect his focus on retribution. Since the Department of Justice is in Trump's pocket, a free press and a Judicial Branch that respects the law are vital to the protection of our Democracy. Fortunately, even the Supreme Court has begun to recognize that fact.
