Power User with Taylor Lorenz
The Right-Wing Plot to ‘Murder’ a Free Press
Mar 13, 2025
David Enrich, a seasoned journalist at the New York Times and author of "Murder the Truth," dives into the threats facing America's free press. He discusses the landmark Supreme Court case New York Times v. Sullivan and its implications for media freedom. Enrich highlights a coordinated right-wing campaign to undermine this legal protection, sharing insights on wealthy individuals' influence on press freedom and the struggles independent journalists face today. This conversation raises critical questions about the future of dissenting voices in democracy.
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Quick takeaways
- The Supreme Court ruling in New York Times v. Sullivan is under threat, jeopardizing the essential protections for investigative journalism.
- Wealthy individuals are using costly litigation to intimidate journalists, leading to a chilling effect on press freedom and public accountability.
Deep dives
The Threat to Press Freedom
The landmark Supreme Court case New York Times v. Sullivan established critical protections for the press by allowing journalists to report on public figures without the fear of frivolous lawsuits. This ruling enabled media outlets to investigate and publish stories on powerful individuals and institutions without undue legal repercussions provided that the information was not published with actual malice. However, the protection offered by Sullivan is now under threat due to sustained legal efforts that seek to undermine its principles. Recent campaigns have aimed at chipping away these protections, raising concerns about the future of journalistic integrity and the ability to hold the powerful accountable.
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