The DSR Network NTK: Wait, Is There Actually Hope for the Media?
Oct 2, 2025
In this discussion, media experts Jeff Jarvis and Dan Froomkin delve into the state of American journalism amidst rising authoritarianism. They explore whether Jimmy Kimmel's recent actions provide a glimmer of hope for media reform. Jarvis expresses concern over mass media's failures and warns of right-wing takeovers, while Froomkin highlights grassroots public outrage as a catalyst for journalists' independence. They also debate the challenges of covering issues like Christian nationalism and the implications of media oligopolies, envisioning a future where independent platforms thrive.
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Mainstream Media's Failure And Capture
- Jeff Jarvis argues mainstream media have largely failed to resist authoritarian drift and are complicit or cowardly.
- He sees concentrated ownership and platform capture as accelerating propaganda and the loss of independent dissent.
Jimmy Kimmel's Pull And Public Backlash
- Dan Froomkin describes the Jimmy Kimmel episode as terrifying when ABC pulled him off air.
- He recounts a massive public outcry, cancellations, protests, and ABC reversing course and reinstating Kimmel.
U.S. Press Avoids Hard Judgments
- Jeff asserts the New York Times and other outlets still often normalize or understate extreme actions.
- He contrasts harsh European coverage with U.S. papers' reluctance to judge strongly.
