News & Opinion

Jon Allsop in Columbia Journalism Review, July 15, 2024, reports that many at Trump’s rally blamed the press for the assassination attempt. Ultra conservative politicians and media figures also contended that saying Trump was a threat to democracy inspired the attempt. Oliver Darcy in CNN, July 14, 2024, writes that while liberal media figures expressed their regret for the attempt on Trump and sorrow that a man died and two others were critically injured, MAGA

Federal prosecutors are attacking journalist Trevor Aaronson and documentary journalism because Aaronsom is planning a report on the prosecution of a Michigan man for terrorism. Prosecutors are claiming documentaries aren’t legitimate journalism, rather powerful voices evoking emotions that leave out information and create an enduring impression. (Freedom of the Press Foundation, July 15, 2024, by Caitlin Vogus) For related FAC coverage, click here and here.

Activists are suing in federal court after Chicago denied them permits to march at the Democratic National Convention (DNC) set for August 19. The city did not find the routes viable, and the alternatives they suggested failed to meet the activists’ approval. (Chicago Sun-Times, July 13, 2024, by Mary Norkol) The activists say shunting them to Grant Park denies them a chance to be seen and heard. “Chicago is home to an inspiring dynamic community

The American Civil Liberties Union announced a plan to meet the assaults on free speech and press rights that a new Trump presidency promises. Trump is likely to go after political opponents, crack down on protesters and the press and use surveillance on Americans. (The Hill, July 11, 2024, by Lauren Sforza) Besides defending protesters and journalists under attack from law enforcement, the ACLU plans to ask Congress to narrow presidential power including surveillance power