Over the past few months, Donald Trump has stepped up his aggressive attacks on the media. He’s filed or threatened lawsuits and made demands that critics view as outrageous. His examples range from a recent lawsuit against the company accusing it of fraud and seeking $20 billion in damages. In addition, the former president continues to pressure the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to silence and retaliate against a number of these news networks. He claims this move is necessary due to, in his words, “corrupt and illegal” behavior at outlets such as CNN.
Ever since Trump’s successful re-claiming of the presidency, he’s upped the ante on his attacks on essentially a press that he’s always seen as an enemy. Observers point out that his conduct fits an already established pattern of hostility towards press organizations. Trump has all but made this part of his strategy, issuing such “ridiculous demands” to journalists in advance. He thinks that these demands will force them to develop better, consumer-friendly coverage.
In particular, John Oliver, a strong new voice in media criticism, warned about Trump’s moving goalposts. He contended the former president’s demands are out of line at this stage. What’s more, they attack the core purpose of a free press in a democratic society.
“Even as threats to the free press seem to be on the rise, resistance to them seems to be waning.” – John Oliver
Trump’s high-wire antics seem calculated to make sure that the media narrative is whatever version of reality suits him. He cultivates connections with MAGA media and influencers. This maneuver is how he goes about getting the “sycophantic questions he prefers,” Oliver reports. Media dynamics have changed radically since then. In turn, many networks have taken the path of least resistance and stepped back from their historic role as fiery inquisitors.
Critics have warned that the impact of Trump on the FCC continues to shake critical foundations. Under his leadership, the commission has begun looking into accusations of news falsification. Others see this as a misguided attempt to scare networks into doing what they want.
“Wasted no time pursuing Trump’s agenda,” Oliver remarked, referring to Brendan Carr’s rapid alignment with Trump’s demands at the FCC.
Oliver cautioned that Trump’s strategy is part of a disturbing authoritarian playbook. He highlighted that when a former president seeks to control media narratives through threats and legal action, it poses significant risks to press freedom.
“Is to put it bluntly authoritarianism.” – John Oliver
Commenting on the situation, Oliver compared the relationship between Trump and the media to an NBA referee donning a team uniform. He made clear that reporters ought to adopt an adversarial position instead of currying favor with the powerful politicians they cover.
“You don’t wanna see an NBA ref wearing one of the team’s uniforms.” – John Oliver
This last point about Trump’s thirst for adulation is the most interesting when applied to Trump’s relationships with different news outlets. He has shown a proclivity for venues that provide friendly pictures over tough but fair critiques. This dynamic raises questions about the integrity of journalistic standards and the future of independent reporting in the face of pressure from powerful figures.
In addition to all of that, Trump’s relationships across American media are pretty wild. His cozy relationship with Jeff Bezos at his inauguration turned heads. Now the reconflicted press wonders what he intends to do with pillars of 4th estate independence such as The Washington Post. These observers say that this curious interaction is part of a much larger strategy meant to intimidate and coerce compliance from powerful media voices.