Slate Money Money Talks: The Campaign Against the Free Press
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Apr 1, 2025 David Enrich, the New York Times Business Investigations editor and author of "Murder the Truth," joins to discuss the alarming erosion of press freedoms. He reveals how powerful entities exploit legal systems to intimidate journalists, threatening the very foundation of accountability in democracy. The conversation dives into landmark cases like Times vs. Sullivan and the current landscape of misinformation, underscoring the necessity of truth in journalism amidst rising hostile forces.
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Increased Legal Threats
- David Enrich, author of "Murder the Truth", noticed increased legal threats when starting investigative projects.
- These threats aimed to intimidate and deter journalists from covering sensitive topics.
Times vs. Sullivan Explained
- The 1964 New York Times v. Sullivan case protects journalists who make unintentional factual errors.
- Public officials must prove "actual malice" (knowing falsehood or reckless disregard for truth) to win defamation suits.
Gawker Lawsuit's Impact
- Elizabeth Spiers discusses the Hulk Hogan/Peter Thiel lawsuit against Gawker.
- This lawsuit made investigative journalists more aware of their vulnerabilities and the need for indemnification.
