A message to all Americans
To the editor:
The architects of our U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights understood the essential role that a free press, i.e. the news media, plays in preserving and protecting our democracy. They protected the freedom of the press in the First Amendment which prohibits Congress from passing any law that would abridge that freedom. Throughout history, the Mainstream Media (MSM) has served as a bulwark against tyranny within our government and within other organizations that threatened the American public and our democracy.
From the beginning of his campaign, then as President Elect, and now as President, Donald Trump has loudly and repeatedly condemned the MSM as “Fake News” and the “enemy of the people.” It’s clear that Donald Trump’s intention is to marginalize and suppress the MSM so he alone can control the message, a message liberally sprinkled with deceptions and lies.
Senator John McCain has slammed President Trump’s attacks on the media. “They (dictators) get started by suppressing free press when you look at history, the first thing that dictators do is shut down the press,” McCain said. And, that is exactly what Trump is trying to do.
As dangerous as Trump’s attempt to shut down the MSM is to our democracy, I took some comfort in knowing that at least the Republican GOP leadership did not support Trump’s “Fake News” message, or so I thought. Then I happened upon the RNC Website and saw this message (gop.com/bigleaguetruth/).
“We cannot count on the FAKE NEWS to bring truth to the American people.
“We need you to help us speak directly to hard-working Americans and fight alongside President Trump for America First policies.
“Join the #BigLeagueTruth Team and help us cut through the noise.”
The GOP’s “#BigLeagueTruth Team”? Apparently, the GOP has bought into Trump’s “Fake News” fantasy hook, line and sinker, and is eager to spread the “news” that the MSM is not to be trusted and should be ignored. The GOP wants you to ignore the free press and spread the Trump message.
I’m rapidly losing all hope for the survival of our democracy.
Russell Moody
Cape Coral