In a bold move, a coalition of eight Democratic senators, led by Senator Bernie Sanders, has issued a stern warning to Paramount Global’s leadership not to settle Donald Trump’s $20 billion lawsuit against 60 Minutes. The senators’ plea is rooted in their conviction that such a decision would be a “grave mistake” and a capitulation to the former president’s “dangerous move to authoritarianism.”
The controversy stems from Trump’s allegations of “election interference” against CBS News, arising from the editing of last year’s 60 Minutes interview with Kamala Harris. The senators argue that Trump’s lawsuit is an attack on the United States Constitution and the First Amendment, with “absolutely no merit.” They condemn it as a blatant attempt to intimidate the media and those who dare to speak out against him.
In their letter, the senators praise Paramount Global’s initial decision to file two motions to dismiss Trump’s case, citing its lack of basis in law or fact. However, they express deep concern over reports that the company is considering a settlement with Trump for as much as $75 million. Such a move, they warn, would not only embolden Trump but also encourage him to continue his war against the media and freedom of the press.
The senators’ plea is timely, given the escalating attacks on US media under the Trump administration. The president has frequently denounced major news outlets like CNN and MSNBC as “illegal,” while ordering the elimination of the US Agency for Global Media, which oversees Voice of America. Moreover, Trump recently signed an executive order aiming to cut public funding for National Public Radio (NPR) and the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS), citing perceived left-wing bias.
In response to these attacks, NPR and PBS have announced their intention to explore legal options. The senators’ letter serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of press freedom in a democracy, urging Paramount Global’s leadership to stand firm against Trump’s lawsuit and protect the integrity of 60 Minutes.
As Senator Sanders and his colleagues so eloquently put it: “Stand up for freedom of the press and our democracy.” The world is watching, and the stakes have never been higher.
Sourced from https://www.theguardian.com/