Brief Summary
The recent settlements by CBS and ABC News in lawsuits brought by President Trump are seen as a blow to journalism, likened to a "surrender" rather than a defense of journalistic integrity. News organizations face constant pressure from powerful figures to avoid challenging them, but it's crucial for management and ownership to support journalists in exercising their First Amendment rights. Instances at 9 News, where management resisted demands from political candidates and threats of boycotts, highlight the importance of backing journalists who challenge power.
- Settlements by CBS and ABC News in lawsuits brought by President Trump are seen as a blow to journalism.
- News organizations face constant pressure from powerful figures to avoid challenging them.
- It's crucial for management and ownership to support journalists in exercising their First Amendment rights.
Settlements and Surrender in Journalism
The parent company of CBS News is settling a lawsuit brought by President Trump, similar to what ABC News did. Legal experts considered these lawsuits weak, but the networks chose to settle instead of fighting. This decision is criticized as a "surrender" or "pay off," undermining the principle of standing behind journalism when facing pressure from powerful individuals.
Everyday Pressures in Newsrooms
Newsrooms across America face daily decisions on whether to support journalism when challenged by powerful people. The speaker shares examples from 9 News, such as when management refused a Republican candidate's request to choose the debate moderator and a Democratic candidate's attempt to select their interviewer. The news organization has also faced lawsuits, boycott threats, demands to remove online reports, and pressure campaigns aimed at removing journalists.
The Role of Leadership and Ownership
Despite facing various pressures, the leadership and owner of 9 News, Tegna, have consistently supported their journalism in public, private, courtrooms, and conference rooms. While these instances may not be as significant as a lawsuit from the President, every news outlet that challenges power faces pressure to stop or to avoid angering powerful people. The speaker emphasizes that while journalists are visibly exercising their First Amendment rights, the support from management, leadership, and ownership is crucial for upholding journalism.
