Free press advocates are raising alarms over Donald Trump's renewed threats to revoke broadcast licenses and jail journalists, warning that a second term could significantly undermine press freedom in the United States. Legal scholars and journalism advocacy groups note that Trump's campaign rhetoric has been marked by virulent attacks on the media, including calls for prosecuting journalists and their sources.
Heidi Kitrosser, a Northwestern University law professor, expressed concern that Trump would follow through on his promises to punish critics and investigative journalists who expose inconvenient facts. Trump has long labelled journalists as 'enemies of the people' and has used increasingly violent language since leaving office in 2021, including suggesting that a journalist could be compelled to reveal sources through the threat of prison rape.
Despite these threats, some experts point to robust First Amendment protections and potential legislative safeguards as reasons for cautious optimism. Trevor Timm of the Freedom of the Press Foundation noted that while Trump's rhetoric has escalated, he may not follow through on all his threats. However, the appointment of loyalists like Kash Patel to key positions could embolden efforts to target the media.
Trump has repeatedly called for the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to revoke broadcast licenses of networks he deems hostile, such as CBS and NBC. FCC commissioners appointed by Trump have indicated willingness to investigate complaints against media outlets, raising concerns that the commission could be weaponised against the press. Nevertheless, legal experts argue that the FCC lacks authority to revoke licenses based on news content, and any such action would face significant legal hurdles.
