Ronan Farrow on the link between #MeToo, Weinstein and Trump
Jun 6, 2024
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Ronan Farrow, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist known for his groundbreaking work on Harvey Weinstein and the Trump-Russia investigation, delves into the intricacies of media ethics and the #MeToo movement. He reveals how the National Enquirer strategized to bury damaging Trump stories through 'catch and kill' practices, linking them to the 2016 election. Farrow also shares his personal experiences with the challenges of investigative reporting, including the emotional toll and threats faced by journalists while exposing powerful figures.
The National Enquirer's 'catch and kill' strategy tied to Trump's past potentially violated campaign finance laws.
Uncovering retaliatory tactics against journalists shows the challenges faced in investigative reporting.
Deep dives
Origins of the Criminal Case Against Trump
The criminal case against Trump stemmed from the Me Too movement and investigative journalism uncovering efforts to conceal his alleged sexual encounters. Ronan Farrow, known for exposing abuses by Harvey Weinstein, highlighted payments by the National Enquirer to suppress damaging stories about Trump, potentially violating campaign finance laws.
Key Witnesses in the Trump Trial
Witnesses like David Pecker, CEO of AMI, testified about arrangements with Trump to suppress negative stories. Explicitly connecting these actions to wider conspiracies helped establish the prosecution's case. While testimonies from individuals like Karen McDougal and a Trump Tower doorman weren't directly charged, they provided essential contextual information.
Interference with Reporters and Retaliatory Measures
Retaliatory efforts against reporters, including Ronan Farrow, were extensive and intrusive, involving surveillance and personal attacks. National Enquirer's tactics included threats, intimidation, and attempts to discredit reporters. The exposure of such schemes and the impact on journalists highlight ongoing challenges in investigative reporting.
Learning from Investigations of Trump and Weinstein
The scrutiny faced by Trump and Weinstein demonstrates the lengths powerful individuals go to hide misconduct. While legal outcomes differ, common patterns emerged in efforts to suppress information through financial deals and intimidation. Investigations like these underscore the role of journalism in uncovering abuses of power and the evolving landscape of media influence.
While reporting on Harvey Weinstein and the #MeToo movement, Farrow unearthed details of the National Enquirer's plan to pay for damaging stories about Trump and then bury those stories — a practice known as "catch and kill." The connection between that practice and the 2016 election gave prosecutors a felony case against the former president.