We are witnessing the silencing of American media | Robert Reich

The author argues that media outlets are succumbing to Donald Trump's influence, leading to the erosion of democratic principles. Eduardo Porter, a respected critic, has left the Washington Post due to what he perceives as a shift towards promoting free markets and personal liberties, potentially influenced by Jeff Bezos' business interests and fear of Trump. Porter suggests that this direction might be a response to Trump's potential actions against Bezos' ventures. The author also expresses offense and distrust towards a network, implied to be CBS, due to a financial settlement with a government official. This settlement is described as a bribe, particularly as the network's owners are seeking Trump administration approval for its sale. The article suggests a pattern of media capitulation to Trump's power and influence. This capitulation is seen as detrimental to independent journalism and the health of democracy. The author, Robert Reich, is a former US secretary of labor and a professor. He is also a Guardian US columnist and publishes a newsletter. His upcoming memoir is titled "Coming Up Short: A Memoir of My America."