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Trump’s “Pincer Attack” on Journalism Is Working. But There’s Hope.

Apr 9, 2025

David Folkenflik, NPR's media correspondent, breaks down the current media landscape under political pressure, particularly during Trump's second term. He discusses the alarming ways journalism is being targeted, with news organizations facing increased hostility. Folkenflik highlights the erosion of public trust, particularly due to controversial editorial choices. He also explores how journalists can rebuild credibility in a divided society and the implications of funding challenges for public broadcasting amidst rigorous political scrutiny.

29:03

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David Folkenflik

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Quick takeaways

The Trump administration's aggressive tactics against the media have heightened public distrust in journalism and jeopardized funding for public broadcasting.

Rebuilding trust in journalism necessitates understanding diverse audience perspectives and ensuring media organizations maintain their independence from political influence.

Deep dives

Public Trust in Media Declines

Many hardworking Americans increasingly distrust traditional public broadcasting outlets, viewing them less as reliable news sources. This skepticism is compounded by calls from Congress to strip funding from organizations like NPR and PBS, which threatens the foundations of public media. Combined with pressures from political entities, the funding model for public broadcasting faces unprecedented challenges, impacting how such organizations operate. The conversation highlights the growing divide between the public and established media, necessitating a reevaluation of trust and credibility within journalism.

Intro

2min

Media's Turbulent Dialogue with Trump

12min

Navigating Trust and Accountability in Journalism

3min

Navigating the Waters of Public Media Funding

11min

Bridging Divides: The Role of Journalism in a Polarized Society

4min

David Folkenflik occupies a unique role at NPR: He’s a journalist who writes about journalism. And that includes the very organization where he works, which is once again being threatened by conservatives in Washington.

The second Trump administration has aggressively gone after the media in its first few months. It’s kicked news organizations out of the Pentagon. It’s barred other newsrooms from access to the White House. And Trump supporters in Congress are targeting federal funding for public media.

On this week’s episode of More To The Story, Folkenflik talks to host Al Letson about this unprecedented moment for journalists, why more media outlets seem to be bending the knee to the Trump administration, and how journalism can begin to win back public trust.

Listen: Trump’s FCC chief opens investigation into NPR and PBS (NPR)

Read: Meet the New State Media (Mother Jones)

Read: The Media and Trump: Not Resistance, But Not Acceptance (Mother Jones)

Watch: PBS and NPR leaders testify on federal support for public broadcasting in House hearing (PBS NewsHour)