Politics Weekly America What does Donald Trump think free speech means?
16 snips
Sep 19, 2025 
In this engaging discussion, Bhaskar Sunkara, President of The Nation magazine, dives deep into the complexities of free speech under Trump's presidency. He analyzes Trump's $15 billion lawsuit against the New York Times and explores its potential to intimidate press freedom. The conversation also touches on the implications of Jimmy Kimmel’s suspension for regulatory influence on media. Sunkara emphasizes the importance of civic engagement and supporting independent media as a counteraction to Trump’s narrative, shedding light on how democracy can be defended in today's climate.
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The Nation Called Out On Air
- J.D. Vance named The Nation after hosting Charlie Kirk's podcast and suggested external funding influences its reporting.
- Bhaskar Sunkara rebutted by detailing small historical grants and denying Open Society funding.
How US Free Speech Is Framed
- The First Amendment protects nearly all speech unless it intends and is likely to cause imminent lawless action.
- The US legal standard punishes deeds not ideas, allowing hateful speech unless it directly calls for immediate violence.
Rhetoric Vs. Actions On 'Cancel Culture'
- The administration's rhetoric against 'cancel culture' conflicts with officials urging people to call employers and get critics fired.
- State threats and corporate control together create real pressure on public expression beyond constitutional law.
