Democracy Now! Audio Democracy Now! 2025-12-09 Tuesday
4 snips
Dec 9, 2025 Craig Aaron, co-CEO of Free Press, dives into the risks of media consolidation and discussions surrounding Paramount's bid for Warner Brothers Discovery. Carolyn Finney, a cultural geographer, speaks on the importance of recognizing Black history in national parks, emphasizing that removing fee-free days won't erase this legacy. Audrey Peterman shares her commitment to enhancing access for communities of color within the park system. Larry Hamm updates listeners on the 100-mile march for Mumia Abu-Jamal, demanding urgent medical care and highlighting issues in prison healthcare.
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Deals Sought Through Political Favor
- Paramount appeals to the Trump administration by promising favorable coverage and flattering the president.
- Craig Aaron describes the merger fight as driven by access to presidential favor, not public interest.
Push Regulators To Scrutinize Deals
- Regulators like the Justice Department and state attorneys general should rigorously review mega-mergers.
- Craig Aaron urges states and international watchdogs to scrutinize deals and prevent harmful concentration.
Local TV Consolidation Threatens Journalism
- Broadcast consolidation (e.g., Nexstar–Tegna) threatens local journalism and political neutrality.
- Craig Aaron links corporate consolidation to demands for loyalty to the administration and erosion of critical journalism.
