President-elect Donald Trump has called on Republicans to block a press protection bill that leftist media hopes to use to shield themselves from consequences for political bias.
The New York Post reported that the PRESS Act faces opposition from Trump, who has given the order to GOP Senators that it should not be passed in the Senate after nearly a year in limbo.
The Protect Reporters from Exploitative State Spying (PRESS) Act, aimed at safeguarding journalists from revealing sources in federal investigations, was passed unanimously by voice vote in the Republican-led House in January. However, its progress stalled in the Senate.
Despite Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer's endorsement, the bill languished in the Senate Judiciary Committee without a vote, chaired by Senator Dick Durbin.
This delay has been critical in the bill's stagnation, especially as President Biden has remained neutral, not explicitly supporting or opposing the legislation.
Trump’s vocal opposition surfaced prominently on his Truth Social account, where he expressed a desire to see the bill fail, framing it as beneficial to his adversaries in the media.
"REPUBLICANS MUST KILL THIS BILL!" Trump posted, directly appealing to his party to thwart the legislation's passage.
This stance has intensified challenges for the bill's advocates, who are striving to garner sufficient support in the Senate and the incoming administration.
The PRESS Act is designed to prevent federal officials from coercing journalists into handing over confidential information, except in cases where the journalist is suspected of a crime or acting as a foreign agent.
Key Republican co-sponsors of the bill, including Representatives Kevin Kiley, Kelly Armstrong, Ben Cline, Russell Fry, Ashley Hinson, and Barry Moore, have emphasized its importance in protecting journalistic freedom.
However, the lack of a definitive stance from Biden has contributed to the uncertainty surrounding the bill’s future.
"Based on the feedback we’ve received from senators and President Trump, it’s clear we have work to do to achieve consensus on this issue," stated Rep. Kiley, expressing hope for bipartisan cooperation under the new administration.
Recent incidents, such as journalist Catherine Herridge facing a fine for refusing to disclose a source, underline the critical need for such protections. The PRESS Act also does not extend to civil lawsuits or state law defamation claims, focusing solely on federal cases.
A Senate Democratic source expressed concerns about Trump's potential actions against journalists, noting, "It’s not hyperbole to admit that Trump does have an enemies list and if you’re a journalist, you’re wearing a Scarlet Letter."
Karine Jean-Pierre, speaking for the White House, acknowledged the complexity of the legislation, indicating that the administration had yet to form a definitive opinion. "As it relates to this particular legislation, I haven’t reviewed it. Would have to talk to our Office of Leg Affairs on that particular legislation," she stated.
The ambiguity from the White House contrasts sharply with Trump’s clear opposition, adding layers to the political maneuvering observed as the bill attempts to navigate through legislative hurdles.
The trajectory of the PRESS Act remains uncertain as it encapsulates broader debates about press freedom and political influence. Its supporters continue to argue for its necessity in safeguarding journalistic integrity, especially under a presidency known for its contentious relationship with the media.
As the bill struggles in the Senate, the political and public discourse surrounding it highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing national security interests with the protection of press freedoms.
