In a moment that has reignited debate about the role of the media in politics, former President Donald Trump made comments this week that drew strong reactions from press freedom advocates.
Speaking to reporters, Trump said that “changes are coming” when asked about what he described as “unfair” media coverage related to a recent decision involving Iran. While he did not elaborate on what those changes might entail, his remarks quickly drew national attention and concern.
“The press has been out of control,” Trump said. “That’s going to change.”
His statement prompted immediate responses from journalists and advocacy groups. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) issued a statement warning that such language could be seen as an attempt to intimidate or undermine a free and independent press — a cornerstone of democratic societies.
“It’s one thing for a public official to criticize coverage,” one analyst noted, “but it’s another to suggest consequences for it.”
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